Al Ahly’s Youssef Belammari suffers knee injury in Spain friendly

Al Ahly defender Youssef Belammari was taken to hospital after suffering a knee sprain during the Egyptian club’s pre-season friendly against Spanish side Badalona on Wednesday.

The match was played at the municipal Bosc de Tosca stadium in Spain as Al Ahly continue their preparations for the new season.

The club confirmed through its official social media accounts that the Morocco international had been taken to hospital for medical examinations and scans. The tests are intended to assess the extent of the injury before a decision is made on how long Belammari may be unavailable for training and matches.

The results are expected to provide a clearer diagnosis and establish whether the player will require an extended period of treatment and rehabilitation before he can return to competitive action.

Belammari joined Al Ahly from Moroccan club Raja Casablanca in January, signing a three-and-a-half-year contract. His injury represents an early concern for a side seeking a stronger campaign after a disappointing previous season.

Al Ahly failed to win any major trophy last term, struggling both domestically and in continental competition. The club are now aiming to improve their performances and results when the new campaign begins.

The meeting with Badalona forms part of the team’s preparations in Spain. No timetable for Belammari’s return has yet been announced, with the club expected to wait for the outcome of the scans before providing further details about his condition.

Belammari’s move to Al Ahly was completed during the January transfer window after his spell with Raja Casablanca. The agreement secured his services for three-and-a-half seasons, making him part of the club’s plans as they attempt to rebuild following their setbacks last season.

The report also appeared alongside references to two separate football stories. One concerned new details in the case described as the “Infantino mistress” affair, including claims involving a high salary and a rapid promotion. Another referred to comments from Hussein Kharja directed at Luis Figo, with the former Morocco captain quoted as saying: “Your comments are vile.. and how can you speak after what you did with Barcelona?”

For now, Al Ahly’s focus is on determining the seriousness of Belammari’s knee problem. The medical assessment will decide whether he can resume preparations soon or faces a longer spell away from the squad.