Al Ahly unlikely to re-sign Palestinian striker Wissam Abu Ali in winter

Al Ahly are unlikely to bring Palestinian striker Wissam Abu Ali back to the club during the upcoming winter transfer window, with his current employers Columbus Crew reportedly having no intention of allowing him to leave.

Abu Ali, who previously made a significant impact during his time with the Egyptian giants, has been linked with a possible return to Cairo after struggling with an injury since moving to Major League Soccer.

However, the possibility of a winter reunion appears remote, with Columbus considering the 26-year-old an important part of their long-term plans.

The Columbus Crew coach has reportedly made it clear that Abu Ali is regarded as part of the club’s future and that there is currently no intention of sanctioning his departure.

His absence through injury has also been felt by the American club, further strengthening their desire to keep him. The striker is expected to return to action once he completes his recovery.

Abu Ali previously enjoyed an impressive spell at Al Ahly, where his goals and attacking contributions made him an important figure in the squad. His performances left a strong impression on the club and its supporters, making the prospect of his return particularly appealing.

Despite the current situation, Al Ahly could reportedly explore the possibility if any opportunity emerges during the January window. However, the chances of reaching an agreement with Columbus are considered extremely slim.

Meanwhile, Al Ahly head coach Hussein Ammouta has been working to lift the mood within the squad following a difficult period.

The Moroccan coach reportedly held an extended meeting with his players ahead of their next league fixture, giving them an opportunity to speak openly about the team’s recent performances and the growing frustration among supporters.

The players are said to be determined to respond on the pitch and demonstrate an improvement in their performances after acknowledging the disappointment surrounding their recent results.

Al Ahly are scheduled to face Abu Qir Fertilizers on Tuesday in the Egyptian Premier League. They currently sit third in the standings with 10 points, level with second-placed Zamalek but behind them on goal difference, while league leaders Pyramids have two more points.

Zamalek agree to Bezerra departure

The situation surrounding Zamalek and Juan Bezerra has also reached its conclusion, with the Cairo giants agreeing to his departure for Shabab Al Ahli Dubai.

Zamalek were reportedly reluctant to lose the player but eventually had little choice due to the attractive financial package offered to both the club and the player.

The Brazilian was keen on the move, with the financial benefits and the prospect of living in Dubai proving difficult for him to turn down despite Zamalek’s efforts to convince him to stay.

Zamalek’s financial difficulties also played a major role in the decision. The club is in urgent need of revenue, with players still awaiting outstanding payments and the club looking to strengthen its finances.

The agreement is reportedly structured to provide Zamalek with $3 million immediately, followed by another $1 million in February and $1 million in August.

The deal also includes $1 million in potential bonuses and incentives, taking the overall value of the package close to $6 million before other financial considerations.

Zamalek are also expected to benefit from additional amounts after certain fees and deductions were removed from the agreement. The player’s agent commission, reportedly around $600,000, as well as other payments linked to sponsorship and a league championship bonus, have also been factored into the final financial calculations.

Importantly, Zamalek have reportedly secured a 20% sell-on clause, meaning the Egyptian club will be entitled to 20 percent of any future transfer fee generated from Bezerra’s subsequent move.

The agreement therefore provides Zamalek with immediate financial relief while also giving the club the possibility of benefiting financially if the player is sold again in the future.