Adly Al Qaei, former head of Al Ahly’s football company, voiced his disappointment over the timing of the club’s decision to suspend midfielder Emam Ashour and fine him 1.5 million Egyptian pounds, stressing that he had not wished to hear such news now.
Speaking on Al Ahly’s TV channel, he recalled recently outlining the qualities of a role-model player who understands his value, represents his club with humility, and makes a difference on the pitch while respecting the team’s status.
Al Qaei said: “I do not know the reason behind Imam Ashour’s behavior, and if Al Ahly wants to reveal it, they will, but sometimes the club pays the price for disclosing a player’s actions to protect him, because the club wants to correct the player, not cut him off.” He reminded fans that the club stood by Ashour through injury and illness, warning that excessive praise in Egyptian football often leads to neglecting the club’s rights.
He insisted that kissing the badge is not the standard, but genuine commitment on and off the field, noting that if Ashour cannot present a compelling excuse, his actions will remain unacceptable.
“Al Ahly suspended 19 key players before a Cairo derby, so this club does not bargain,” he added, pointing to a historical precedent when star Mohamed Aboutrika received a two‑month ban and a hefty fine worth around 20% of his contract. Al Qaei urged Ashour to speak directly with the club’s management, stressing that neither wage adjustments nor a transfer will come through pressure or blackmail and that any such steps must be decided within the team framework.
He concluded: “My message to Al Ahly fans is: do not look at those gloating. Our signings were never done out of one‑upmanship, but to strengthen the team, and whoever can handle responsibility will stay.”
