Moncef Bakrar says Al Ahly ‘project’ and Amouta talks convinced him to leave Europe

Algeria striker Moncef Bakrar says the stature of Al Ahly and a direct intervention from new coach Hussein Amouta persuaded him to swap Dinamo Zagreb for the African champions despite receiving offers from several European clubs.

The forward has completed his move from the Croatian side to the Cairo giants after reaching an agreement with Al Ahly during the current summer transfer window.

Speaking to Maghreb Foot, Bakrar said Al Ahly’s size, history and constant pursuit of silverware were decisive factors as he weighed up his next step.

“Al Ahly is a big club and needs no introduction, and I am honoured to join them,” he said. “This team competes for titles every season, and that is what I am aiming to achieve with them.”

Amouta’s role in sealing the deal

Bakrar underlined that new Al Ahly boss Amouta, who was recently appointed to lead the record African champions, played a central role in convincing him to make the switch from Dinamo Zagreb.

According to the same report, the 23-year-old explained that a detailed discussion with the Moroccan coach reassured him about his place in the squad and the tactical plan in which he would be used.

“Coach Amouta spoke to me and stressed that he is counting on me a lot,” Bakrar said. “He also convinced me with his technical project and the style of play we will adopt in the attacking line, and that increased my enthusiasm to choose Al Ahly.”

The Algerian international, who can operate across the front line, opted for the Egyptian champions’ proposal even though he had several other options in Europe this summer. Maghreb Foot reported that Al Ahly’s management had been insistent on signing him to bolster their attacking department.

Ambition to match Al Ahly expectations

Bakrar, who joins a club that regularly competes for the CAF Champions League as well as domestic honours, said he is determined to justify the faith shown in him by both Amouta and the Al Ahly hierarchy.

He concluded his remarks by stressing his desire to make an immediate impact for the Cairo side and to adapt quickly to the demands of playing for one of the continent’s most successful teams.

He said he is “looking forward to providing the expected added value” for the “Red Devils”, expressing the hope that he will live up to the expectations of the coaching staff and supporters, and help the club sustain its push for trophies on all fronts.

Al Ahly have not disclosed any financial details of the deal, nor the length of Bakrar’s contract, but the transfer underlines their intent to refresh their attack under Amouta while maintaining their domestic and continental dominance.