Renowned sports journalist Ahmed Shobier, former goalkeeper for Ahly and the Egyptian national team, has shed light on the reason behind Ali Lotfi, the former Ahly goalkeeper and the current Zed FC goalkeeper, not returning to the Red Castle in the current winter transfer window.
Yesterday, Ahly announced the signing of Mahmoud El-Zanfally, the goalkeeper of Al-Dakhleya, on a 6-month loan, following a severe shoulder injury sustained by international goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shennawy during his participation in the African Cup of Nations with the Egyptian national team.
Ali Lotfi was among the names rumored to make a return to Ahly during the winter transfer window, alongside Mohamed Bassam and Mohamed Abou Gabal.
Ahmed Shobier commented, “I became aware that Ali Lotfi is upset with me because I underestimated his abilities in my comments about him.
The truth is, I never meant to hurt Ali Lotfi’s feelings because he is a talented goalkeeper who has proven his abilities and strong presence in the tasks assigned to him during his time at Ahly.”
Shobier added, “All that happened was that I reported the news that Michel Yankon, Ahly’s goalkeeping coach, strongly rejected his return to the club.
I never diminished Ali Lotfi’s capabilities, but I mentioned that the reason for his exclusion from the names considered to reinforce the team’s goalkeeping position was Michel Yankon, who vehemently refused his return.”
