Abdallah Gomaa ends two-year absence as Lavena complete free transfer for ex‐Zamalek defender

Lavena have announced the signing of former Zamalek and ENPPI left-back Abdallah Gomaa on a free transfer, bringing the defender back into professional football after a two-year spell away from the pitch.

The 29-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with the club during the current summer transfer window, joining as part of Lavena’s preparations for the new season in the Egyptian Professional League.

Gomaa was available on a free after leaving Baladeyet El Mahalla at the end of his contract in the summer of 2024, following a short spell with the club that began in the January 2024 transfer window.

Lavena confirmed the deal on Saturday, describing Gomaa as one of their key reinforcements ahead of the upcoming campaign, as they look to strengthen their squad with experienced domestic talent.

Career path through Egypt and Europe

Gomaa came through the youth ranks at ENPPI, joining their academy in 2013 before being promoted swiftly to the first team on the back of his performances at youth level.

In January 2014 he secured a move abroad, joining German side Union Berlin on loan from ENPPI, gaining his first experience in European football.

He later returned to Egypt and, in January 2017, moved from ENPPI to Al Masry on loan, adding further top-flight experience in the Egyptian Premier League.

The defender’s most significant spell came after his transfer from ENPPI to Zamalek in the summer of 2017. He remained with the Cairo giants for seven seasons, establishing himself as a first-team option during a period in which Zamalek competed regularly for domestic and continental honours.

After his time at Zamalek came to an end, Gomaa joined Baladeyet El Mahalla in the January 2024 transfer window. He stayed with the club until the summer of 2024, when his contract was concluded.

Return to action

Gomaa’s move to Lavena marks his return to competitive action through the club’s “gateway” in the Professional League, closing a two-year gap since he last featured regularly.

By confirming the deal this summer, Lavena have secured the services of a player with extensive experience in Egyptian football and a brief stint in Germany, as they bid to enhance their squad depth for the challenges of the new season.