Mokwena says Pyramids midfielder Lasheen could play for Real Madrid

Pyramids manager Rulani Mokwena has praised Mohanad Lasheen after his side moved top of the Egyptian Premier League with victory over Al Masry, saying the midfielder would be playing for Real Madrid if he were younger.

Pyramids have won each of their opening three league matches this season, giving them a perfect record of nine points and placing them at the summit of the table.

Speaking to On Sport after the win, Mokwena said he was proud of his players and impressed by the quality within his squad.

“I don’t know when the last time Pyramids beat Al Masry was, I am proud of the players and the big stars in the team,” he said.

The South African coach singled out goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy for particular praise, insisting he had produced a flawless performance.

“Ahmed El Shenawy is an amazing goalkeeper and he does not make any mistakes,” Mokwena added.

Mokwena also highlighted the partnership between Ahmed Samy and Mahmoud Marei, describing them as the best defensive pairing in the Egyptian Premier League.

He said the two defenders were particularly effective when building play from the back and questioned why neither player was part of the Egypt national team.

“Ahmed Samy and Mahmoud Marei are the best defensive duo in the entire Egyptian Premier League, and they are excellent at playing the ball on the ground. I don’t know how this duo are not joining the Egypt national team,” he said.

Moroccan full-back Mohamed Chibi was another player to receive recognition from the Pyramids manager. Mokwena called him one of the best players in the league and said his display against Al Masry demonstrated the qualities behind that assessment.

“Mohamed Chibi is one of the best players in the league, and in the Al Masry match he showed why he is the best,” Mokwena said.

His strongest individual endorsement was reserved for Lasheen, whose contribution has helped Pyramids make a perfect start to their league campaign.

Mokwena suggested the midfielder possesses the ability to perform at the highest level in European football, while acknowledging that age would be a factor in such a move.

“Mohanad Lasheen is a great player, and if he were younger, he would be playing for Real Madrid now,” Mokwena said.

The comments came after Pyramids maintained their 100% start by beating Al Masry. Their three wins have yielded nine points, leaving them top of the Egyptian Premier League at this early stage of the season.