Jose Gomes dismisses talk of a return to Zamalek as he focuses on Al Khaleej

Jose Gomes has rejected speculation that he could return to manage Zamalek, saying constant reports in the Egyptian media about his future would “drive me crazy”.

The Portuguese coach was speaking after Al Khaleej recorded their first Saudi Pro League victory of the season, beating Al Fayha 2-0 in the ninth round.

“Following the news, the Egyptian media and the rumours linking me with a move from one club to another will drive me crazy,” Gomes said at a news conference.

“If a story is put forward now and passed from one person to another, we will see a different story each time. What about when there are 120 million Egyptians?”

He added: “These rumours are not true. Every story is different, and my entire focus is with Al Khaleej and building a strong group.”

The victory lifted Al Khaleej to nine points and moved them into 11th place in the Saudi Pro League table.

Gomes joined Zamalek in February 2024, but the club announced his departure 10 months later.

His final match in charge of the Egyptian side was against Enyimba in Nigeria in the second round of the Confederation Cup.

During his time at Zamalek, Gomes managed 47 matches, recording 27 wins, nine draws and 11 defeats.

He also guided the club to the Confederation Cup and African Super Cup titles during his 10-month spell.