Yannick Ferreira favors Mohamed Sobhi over Mohamed Awad and reveals Chico Banaza’s off-field struggles

In a candid press conference, Zamalek coach Yannick Ferreira openly discussed several pressing topics about his team’s performance and squad selection.

He highlighted the goalkeeping situation by comparing Mohamed Sobhi and Mohamed Awad, stating, “Mohamed Sobhi is better than Awad in many respects; Sobhi deals well with crosses and is comfortable passing with both feet.”

Ferreira clarified that these technical strengths inform the coaching staff’s decisions, noting that being a modern goalkeeper means more than just saving shot, it’s also about building play and managing aerial threats. He added there is healthy competition between the keepers, dismissing rumors of tension: “Mohamed Awad has never spoken to us about feeling upset, quite the opposite.”

Addressing the absence of striker Chico Banaza from the starting lineup, Ferreira confirmed there were off-field issues: “There were many incidents outside the pitch, and we talked to him about it.” The coach explained that at the moment, Adam Kaid and Ahmed Sherif were the best options for the team.

Ferreira concluded by urging realism about trophies: “On my first day in Cairo, I said I can’t promise everyone we’ll win every tournament, because I’m honest and straightforward.” He stressed that hard work is essential, and that “no coach in the world can guarantee titles.”

After a difficult run, three league games without a win, Zamalek aims to reset with a key African Confederation Cup clash against Dekedaha of Somalia. As the club looks to bounce back, Ferreira’s message is one of hard work, transparency, and renewed determination