Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta’s position as Al-Ahly head coach could come under serious threat if his side fails to beat Zamalek in Sunday’s Egyptian Premier League derby.
Egyptian journalist Ahmed Schubert has suggested that the result of the highly anticipated Cairo derby will have a significant influence on Ammouta’s future at the club.
Schubert said in radio statements on Wednesday: “The Al-Ahly and Zamalek match will greatly affect Hussein Ammouta’s stay with Al-Ahly club, and will undoubtedly affect both clubs, but in Al-Ahly in particular it has a greater impact.”
Victory could strengthen Ammouta’s position
According to Schubert, a victory over Zamalek would provide Ammouta with strong backing from Al-Ahly and could ease the pressure surrounding his position.
However, anything less could leave the Moroccan coach facing an uncertain future.
« If Amouta wins, he will receive great support in Al-Ahly, if he draws or loses, things will be difficult, which will threaten his future with the team », Schubert added.
The comments underline the importance of the derby for Ammouta, who could find himself under increased scrutiny if Al-Ahly fail to secure three points.
High stakes in Cairo derby
Al-Ahly and Zamalek will meet on Sunday in the sixth round of the Egyptian Premier League, with the fixture carrying significant implications for both clubs.
For Ammouta, however, the match could have consequences beyond the league table, with his position reportedly dependent on the outcome.
The Moroccan coach will therefore be under pressure to deliver a victory and strengthen his case to remain in charge of one of Africa’s biggest clubs.
The Al-Ahly-Zamalek clash is scheduled for 17:00 local time on Sunday.
