Bank Al Ahly strengthen squad with former Zamalek duo Hatem Saker and Karim Hamed

Bank Al Ahly have completed deals to sign former Zamalek players Hatem Saker and Karim Hamed, with both joining the Egyptian club on three-year contracts.

Saker arrives from Ismaily, while winger Hamed has moved from Greek side Panserraikos as a free agent. Hamed completed the transfer after featuring in four friendly matches for Bank Al Ahly.

The double signing gives Bank Al Ahly further options ahead of the new league season, which begins for them on Friday against newly promoted Abu Qir Fertilizers.

Saker, 24, joined Ismaily as a free agent after ending his contract with Zamalek in January 2024. He can operate both as a left-back and as a centre-back.

He made 61 appearances for Zamalek and Ismaily combined, scoring twice during his time with the two clubs.

Hamed, 20, had been contracted to Panserraikos after leaving Zamalek at the end of his deal in the summer of 2024. Despite his departure, Zamalek benefited from the move.

The winger also spent a period on loan at Greek club Kavala from Panserraikos. Across his professional career in Greek competitions, Hamed has scored eight goals and supplied six assists in 30 appearances.

Bank Al Ahly will open their league campaign against Abu Qir Fertilizers on Friday, with the club continuing to reshape its squad before the start of competitive action.

The club have also signed Mohamed Nasr from Ismaily, Alpha Keita and Ali Hamdy from Tala’ea El Gaish, Mohamed Nasser from ENPPI, Mohamed Gamal from El Sekka El Hadid, and Rashad El Metwally from Modern Sport.

Their other recruits include Nigerian forward Boluwatife Ibukunoluwa, Brazilian player Anderson Ceara and Mohamed Reda from Al Ahly.

Saker’s versatility provides Bank Al Ahly with defensive cover in more than one position, while Hamed adds another attacking option after his experience in Greek football. Both players will now aim to establish themselves at their new club as Bank Al Ahly begin their league campaign against the newly promoted side.