Egyptian football federation reveals behind-the-scenes of Belgian league style adaptation

Amer Hussein, a member of the Egyptian Football Federation Board and supervisor of competitions, has refuted claims of favoritism towards any club, particularly Al Ahly, and stressed the absence of extended time gaps between matches, indicating that the Red Devils are set to play three matches within a week, including the Egyptian Cup final against Zamalek on March 8.

In an interview with “Box to Box,” aired on ETC channel, Hussein emphasized that all clubs had previously discussed changing the league system for one season, but the proposal was unanimously rejected.

However, he highlighted impending challenges in the upcoming season due to tournament congestion and uncertainty surrounding the schedule of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“We proposed changing the league system three years ago, but all clubs insisted on maintaining the current format.

However, we ultimately implement decisions under the Egyptian Football Association, which includes incorporating surprises and possibilities into tournament planning,” explained Hussein.

Moreover, Hussein revealed that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is now considering various scenarios for African competitions.

He cited examples of fixture postponements in the past and suggested that the proposed changes aim to ensure equitable opportunities for all clubs.

Regarding the rumored conditions set by Al Ahly to accept the Belgian-style system, Hussein clarified that such stipulations, including the need to accumulate a certain number of points, are standard practice and have been applied in the past.

He reiterated the importance of implementing the concept, emphasizing that some parties have expressed appreciation for the idea as long as it is removed from Egypt.

Under the new system, each team would play 17 matches, with adjustments made in the second phase of the league.

The system aims to create fair competition, with some teams vying for top positions and others battling to avoid relegation.

Hussein also assured that popular clubs would not be adversely affected and emphasized the importance of concluding the Egyptian league before the end of May next year, aligning with continental and global football calendars.

In conclusion, Hussein underscored the ease of collaboration between football stakeholders, including discussions with national team coach Hossam Hassan and ongoing communication with the Egyptian Football Association, emphasizing the smooth handling of matters among them.