Mohamed Abdel Azim, popularly known as “Azima,” has expressed strong optimism about Al Ahly’s prospects at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, stating that the Egyptian champions have what it takes to reach at least the second round.
The tournament is scheduled to be held in the United States from June 14 to July 15.
A former Al Ahly midfielder, Azima has established himself as an experienced coach with a wide-ranging career that includes spells in Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Oman, and South Korea.
His playing career also took him to Germany and Austria, where he featured for clubs such as Arminia Bielefeld, Fortuna Köln, and Ulsan Hyundai.
Speaking in an interview with Kooora, Azima began by congratulating Al Ahly on securing the Egyptian Premier League title and acknowledged both interim coach Emad El-Nahhas and former head coach Marcel Koller for their respective contributions.
“To begin with, I would like to congratulate Al Ahly on winning the Egyptian Premier League, along with their vast fan base, interim coach Emad El-Nahhas, and his technical staff, who completed their task in the best possible way.
“We must also not forget the contribution of Swiss coach Marcel Koller, the former manager, who played a role in this achievement.”
Azima emphasized the club’s depth and recent transfer activity as key reasons why the team should perform well on the global stage.
“I believe Al Ahly have a strong chance of reaching at least the second round and advancing past the group stage of the Club World Cup. The team boasts highly skilled and experienced players, in addition to being strengthened by quality signings.”
