Genesh explains why Emam Ashour chose Al Ahly over Zamalek

Mahmoud Abdel Rahim Genesh says financial realities and the growing influence of professionalism have made moves between traditional rivals more understandable, including Emam Ashour’s decision to join Al Ahly rather than return to Zamalek.

Speaking to MBC Masr, the Abu Qir Fertilizers goalkeeper said players now had a range of reasons for crossing the divide between Egypt’s two biggest clubs.

“ I believe it differs from one person to another,” Genesh said when asked about Zamalek players moving to Al Ahly. “Some people approach it professionally as part of their work, while others say it is impossible for them to play for the other side.”

He added: “In the past, loyalty outweighed these matters. Now, the justifications have become more important than anything else, and money is currently capable of doing everything.”

Genesh said Emam Ashour’s move illustrated the financial pressures involved in a player’s decision.

“Emam Ashour was returning to Egypt. If Zamalek had the money, he would have returned to Zamalek. As a result, the player went to Al Ahly, who were better prepared financially,” he said.

The goalkeeper also argued that Zamalek shared responsibility for losing players before they moved to their main rivals.

“Zamalek did not keep hold of its players before they moved to Al Ahly,” Genesh said. “The club has a role in this, just as the player has a role.”

Genesh revealed that he had also been approached by Al Ahly during his career, but chose to remain with Zamalek.

“I received an offer from Al Ahly once, but I could not go,” he said. “I could not leave Zamalek, and I did not want to play for Al Ahly.”

He explained that personal comfort and appreciation were more important to him than changing clubs.

“I like to be in a place where I feel comfortable so that I can give my best,” Genesh added. “I found myself at Zamalek and received the appreciation I deserved, so I did not need to take that step.”

Genesh currently plays for Abu Qir Fertilizers in the Egyptian Premier League. The club are 16th in the table with three points, having recorded one win and three defeats.

The 116-match Zamalek goalkeeper has enjoyed a lengthy career with several clubs. During his time with Zamalek, he conceded 80 goals and kept 54 clean sheets.

He won a number of honours with the club, including the Egyptian Cup seven times, the Egyptian Premier League twice, the Egyptian Super Cup once and the CAF Confederation Cup once.