Zamalek open talks with Moroccan coach Jamal Sellami after leaving Jordan job

Egyptian giants Zamalek have stepped up their search for a new head coach by making initial contact with highly-rated Moroccan tactician Jamal Sellami ahead of the 2026/27 season.

According to reports in the Egyptian media, the White Knights have entered a new phase in their coaching hunt after sounding out Sellami over his salary expectations, with the club now considering opening formal negotiations to appoint him as their next manager.

Zamalek’s hierarchy is eager to conclude the search for a new coach as preparations for the upcoming campaign gather pace. The club reportedly identified Sellami as a leading candidate following the collapse of negotiations with Portuguese coach Alexandre Santos.

The discussions with Santos reportedly broke down after both parties failed to agree on financial terms. The Portuguese manager has since moved on, signing a deal with Kuwait SC after leaving Moroccan powerhouse FAR Rabat, forcing Zamalek to explore alternative options.

Sellami has now emerged as one of the frontrunners for the position after recently ending his spell with the Jordan national team. His departure came shortly after Jordan’s historic maiden appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where their campaign ended in the knockout stage.

The Moroccan coach leaves Jordan with his reputation significantly enhanced, having overseen one of the country’s greatest football achievements by guiding the national team to its first-ever World Cup qualification. His two-year tenure earned widespread praise for transforming Jordan into one of Asia’s emerging football forces.

Before taking charge of Jordan, Sellami built an impressive coaching résumé in Morocco. He famously guided the Moroccan national team to victory at the 2020 African Nations Championship (CHAN), further cementing his reputation as one of the continent’s most respected tacticians.

At club level, the 54-year-old has managed several top Moroccan sides, including Raja Casablanca, Difaa El Jadida and Fath Union Sport (FUS Rabat), gaining extensive experience in domestic and continental competitions.

Zamalek’s interest in Sellami comes at a crucial time as the Cairo giants aim to rebuild and challenge for major honours both domestically and in Africa next season.

Meanwhile, their fierce rivals Al Ahly have already secured the services of a new head coach, increasing the pressure on Zamalek’s management to complete the appointment of their own manager before pre-season preparations get fully underway.