Ahmed El Ghefali set to arrive in Cairo after resolving passport issue

Ahmed El Ghefali is due to arrive in Cairo to join Zamalek after resolving the passport problem that had delayed his return to the club, according to information obtained by FilGoal.com.

The Tunisia international had been unable to join Zamalek from the start of their pre-season preparations because of the issue with his passport. That dispute has now been settled, clearing the way for his arrival in Egypt and his return to the squad.

El Ghefali has also resolved a financial dispute with Zamalek after receiving outstanding payments. The player had taken his complaint to FIFA before the matter was settled.

The 24-year-old has made three appearances for Zamalek since joining the club but has yet to score or provide an assist.

His future had been the subject of speculation, with reports linking him with a return to the Tunisian league through Club Africain, who won last season’s title. However, El Ghefali is now expected to continue with Zamalek after the resolution of his passport and financial issues.

El Ghefali had complained to FIFA in an attempt to recover the difference between his salary in Egypt and the wages he had received during his time with Saudi Arabian club Abha. The amount involved was estimated at $80,000.

He initially moved to Abha on loan at the start of last season for a one-season spell. The Tunisian later joined Zamalek in January 2025 from Tunisian club US Monastir, signing a contract that runs until the summer of 2028.

Zamalek began the new season with a goalless draw against Al Ittihad Al Sakandary in the opening round of the Egyptian Premier League. They are scheduled to face National Bank of Egypt in their second league match on Wednesday.

El Ghefali’s arrival will give Zamalek another attacking option as they continue their league campaign. His return had been delayed by circumstances away from the pitch, with the passport problem preventing him from being present during the club’s preparations.

The player’s financial complaint and the passport dispute had raised uncertainty over when he would be able to rejoin the squad. With both matters now resolved, his focus will return to competing for a place in the Zamalek team.

For Zamalek, the immediate priority is their meeting with National Bank of Egypt. The Cairo club will be seeking their first victory of the season after being held to a draw by Al Ittihad Al Sakandary in their opening fixture.