Hany Abou Rida, an executive member of FIFA and CAF, attributed Zamalek’s ongoing struggle to poor administration rather than talent, pointing out that club expenses far outweigh revenues.
In a TV interview, he said: “The club’s real issue is management. With so many complaints and cases at FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport, the leadership needs both moral and financial support from the fans to overcome these difficult times.”
Abou Rida praised national coach Hossam Hassan and the Egyptian team for qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, noting: “It wasn’t an easy group, there were surprises in every round and other strong teams like Nigeria still have play-offs.” He also highlighted Mohamed Salah’s leadership: “Salah is a true model for maturity and motivation on and off the pitch. I am very proud of him.”
On Morocco’s football ascent, Abou Rida credited careful planning: “Morocco’s success is the result of years of strategic work, investing in youth and modern academies, and making use of European-based players. Their clear strategy has set them apart both in Africa and worldwide.”
Abou Rida concluded by stressing the importance of investing in youth development for Egypt’s football future. He said, “If I could change a decision, I would have stuck to building a younger team after the 2018 World Cup. The future matters more than any short-term trophy”
