Ghazl El Mahalla’s goalkeeper, Amer Amer, has spoken candidly about the perceived advantage players receive when they represent Egypt’s two biggest clubs, Al Ahly and Zamalek.
The former Enppi shot-stopper insisted that playing for either club significantly boosts a player’s chances of being selected for the national team.
“Coaches look at players from other clubs differently,” Amer said, adding that this view is shared widely by fans and the media. “If I had played for Al Ahly or Zamalek, I believe I would have been in the national team for a much longer period. But you never know what fate has in store.”
Amer emphasized that his focus now is on finishing his career in Egyptian football in a way that honors his legacy. “The most important thing now is to end my career in a manner befitting my name and history,” he said.
Amer revealed he was deeply disappointed that his transfer to Al Ahly fell through. He described playing for the “Club of the Century” as a lifelong dream.
“We were very close to finalizing the deal,” he said. “But the change in coaching staff, administrative issues at Al Ahly, and my injury ultimately prevented the move.”
Despite the setback, Amer said he refused to dwell on it. Instead, he focused on recovery and rebuilding his career.
After returning from injury, he impressed at El Entag El Harby before joining Ceramica Cleopatra on a three-year contract, which he described as a pivotal period in his career.
“I added a lot to the club, and the club added a lot to me,” he said.
Amer believes that joining Al Ahly would have dramatically altered his career trajectory. “Any player dreams of playing for Al Ahly or Zamalek,” he said. “Even a single day at Al Ahly can shape your career for years.”
Still, he remains proud of his achievements in the Egyptian Premier League.
“My name is big in the league,” he said. “I earned it through hard work, God’s grace, and the prayers of my parents.”
Amer suggested that a move to Al Ahly at this stage is unlikely, noting the club’s current focus on young goalkeeping talent.
“Al Ahly is looking for young goalkeepers like Mohamed Siha, who I believe could be the future national team keeper,” he said. “Along with Mostafa Shobeir and Hamza Alaa, they represent the future of goalkeeping at the club.”
He also praised current national team number one Mohamed El Shenawy, calling him a top-class goalkeeper with vast experience.
“His age gives him a significant advantage over the younger goalkeepers,” Amer said. “I hope Al Ahly continues to build a strong foundation for the future goalkeepers of the national team.”
