Osama Orabi, the former star of Al-Ahly Club, has shed light on his decision to decline an opportunity to work alongside the Hassan twins in the Egyptian national team coaching staff.
In an interview on the “Box to Box” program aired on ETC channel, Orabi stated, “Mahmoud Kahraba was a key player in Al-Ahly’s lineup, and his participation in the Egypt Cup final against Zamalek will be in line with Marcel Koller’s vision, especially after his absence from previous matches.
However, it is natural that he is the number one in the attack, and the absence of Wissam Abu Ali will not affect Al-Ahly’s offense.”
Regarding the upcoming match, he added, “Al-Ahly has technical stability, and Koller has been with the team for a long time, preserving everything unlike Gomez, who recently took over the responsibility.
However, the match will be tough between the two teams, and I see Al-Ahly as the closest to victory, but in football, anything can happen.”
He further emphasized that Al-Ahly’s lineup is well-known to everyone, with no dispute over the inclusion of Mustafa Shobier, Mohamed Hani, Mohamed Abdel-Moneim, Rami Rabia, Ali Maaloul, Marwan Mohsen, and Imam Ashour, with the third alongside them according to Koller’s vision.
He expressed his hope for the presence of Amr El-Sulaya instead of Ramadan Sobhi, with Afsha as an asset in the second half.
As for the attack, Percy Tau, Hussein El Shahat, and the choice between Modeste and Kahraba will be the focus.
Orabi also noted, “There are many names that could participate, especially Karim Nedved, who has played several recent matches.
It is possible for him to be included alongside Marwan Mohsen and Imam Ashour, but the coaching staff will have a different vision in the match.”
He concluded, “Imam Ashour is an important and pivotal player in Al-Ahly’s midfield with good attacking abilities.
Hussein El Shahat is also a key player for the Red Team, characterized by emotional stability and excelling in matches against Zamalek.
The team has good elements with experience in major confrontations, such as Mohamed Abdel-Moneim and Ali Maaloul.”
Regarding his decision not to join the national team coaching staff, Orabi stated, “Ibrahim Hassan, the national team director, contacted me to work with the Egyptian national team.
My relationship with the twins is good, and we played together for 15 years in Al-Ahly.
However, I apologized for not being present in the coaching staff due to personal reasons. I am one of their biggest supporters and have recommended them a lot to work in the national team.
I hope to support them greatly in the upcoming period, and the coaching staff includes good elements, including Tarek Soliman and Mohamed Abdel Wahed.”
