Achraf Bencharki’s move to Al Ahly has stirred mixed reactions, with Zamalek SC midfielder Nabil Emad Donga openly admitting he wished the Moroccan forward had returned to his former club instead.
Bencharki rejoined the Egyptian Premier League in January after signing with Al Ahly from Qatari side Al Rayyan.
The Moroccan international previously spent four seasons at Zamalek SC, making 107 appearances and scoring 44 goals.
His contributions helped the White Knights secure multiple domestic and continental titles, earning him a strong following among the club’s supporters.
Despite his successful past at Zamalek, Bencharki’s decision to join their fiercest rivals, Al Ahly, has left many within the club disappointed.
Several officials had reportedly hoped to bring him back, but the forward ultimately opted to sign with the Red Devils instead.
Among those expressing their regret over his move is Nabil Emad Donga, a key midfielder for Zamalek.
Speaking candidly in a recent interview, the 28-year-old revealed he would have preferred to see Bencharki return to the White Knights rather than strengthen their arch-rivals.
“Zizou is more expensive than me and he’s a great player, and Bencharki is a great asset for Al Ahly and I would have liked him to be at Zamalek,” Donga stated.
Donga has been a crucial figure for Zamalek this season, featuring in 23 matches, scoring three goals, and providing one assist.
His comments reflect the sentiment of many Zamalek supporters who had hoped for Bencharki’s return, especially given his past success with the club.
While Bencharki’s arrival at Al Ahly has bolstered their attacking options, Zamalek now faces the challenge of moving forward without their former star.
His presence in the league, albeit in the colours of their biggest rivals, ensures that discussions about what could have been will persist among Zamalek fans and players alike.
