In an official statement released on its Facebook account, Al Ahly Football Club expressed deep condolences for the passing of Abdel Moneim El-Haj, the former coach of the Egypt national team and the ex-president of Tersana Club.
The club conveyed its sincere condolences on behalf of the board of directors and all sectors of the Red Castle, praying that the departed soul finds solace in the mercy of the Almighty.
The news of Abdel Moneim El-Haj’s demise was confirmed by sports commentator Ahmed Shobier on Twitter, stating, “Sincere condolences on the passing of the late Captain Abdel Moneim El-Haj, former coach of the Egypt national team, ex-president of Tersana Club, and former president of the Association of Veteran Athletes… Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un” – a phrase expressing condolences for the deceased.
Born as one of the sons of Zamalek Sporting Club, Brigadier General Abdel Moneim El-Haj began his football journey in youth teams, coinciding with the era of stars like Mohamed Rafaat, Nabil Naseer, and Ahmed Mostafa.
Playing as a right-back, El-Haj progressed through various age groups, eventually joining Zamalek’s first team.
He played two friendly matches and then transferred to Tersana Club, where he was part of a golden generation, including legends like El-Shazly, Mostafa Riad, and Dahshour Harb.
Together, they secured a league title and two Egyptian Cup victories.
In 1971, Brigadier General Abdel Moneim El-Haj announced his retirement and transitioned into coaching.
He coached the Shams and Arab Contractors clubs before pursuing further training in Germany.
In 1980, he took on the role of head coach for the Egypt national team, guiding them to qualify for the Moscow Olympics in 1980 and leading them in the Africa Cup of Nations in Nigeria the same year.
In 1981, Abdel Moneim El-Haj became the head coach of Qatar’s Al Rayyan Club, achieving success by winning both the league and the cup.
Subsequently, he served as the head coach of the Arab national team.
Later, El-Haj ventured into administrative roles, becoming a member of the Egyptian Football Association in 1990.
In 1993, he was elected president of Tersana Club, a position he held until 1998.
Afterward, he served as the head of Cairo’s region, head of the coaches’ committee, deputy head of the Sports Professions Syndicate, and director of the Sports Education Professional Institute.
The legacy of Abdel Moneim El-Haj extends beyond his achievements on the field, marking a lifelong dedication to Egyptian football as both a player and a distinguished figure in various administrative and coaching capacities.
