Zamalek has officially bolstered their defensive lineup with the acquisition of left-back Mahmoud Bentayg on a loan deal from AS Saint-Étienne. The Egyptian club confirmed the signing on Saturday, August 31, marking a strategic move as they gear up for a challenging season across multiple competitions.
Bentayg, 24, arrives at the Cairo-based club with significant experience, having previously played for Raja Casablanca before making the switch to Saint-Étienne in August 2023.
His tenure at the French club was short-lived, but his potential caught the eye of Zamalek’s management, who acted swiftly to bring him on board.
The deal includes a purchase option, offering Zamalek the opportunity to secure his services on a permanent basis should he impress during his loan spell.
For Zamalek, a club with a storied history that includes five CAF Champions League titles, Bentayg represents a crucial addition.
With the team competing on several fronts this season, including domestic and continental tournaments, head coach José Manuel Gomes views Bentayg as a key reinforcement.
The left-back’s versatility and defensive acumen are expected to provide much-needed depth and stability to the squad, particularly in the demanding fixtures that lie ahead.
Bentayg’s journey to one of Africa’s most successful clubs marks a significant step in his career.
His previous stint at Raja Casablanca saw him develop into a reliable defender, and his brief experience in European football with Saint-Étienne will only add to his value at Zamalek.
Known for his pace, defensive discipline, and ability to contribute to the attack, Bentayg is poised to make an immediate impact as he adapts to the high-pressure environment of Egyptian football.
Zamalek’s pursuit of Bentayg underscores their ambition to reclaim dominance both domestically and in Africa.
With a squad already featuring seasoned players like Shikabala, the addition of Bentayg provides Gomes with more tactical options, particularly in fortifying the team’s defense against strong opponents.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Bentayg integrates into the squad and whether his presence can help Zamalek achieve their lofty goals.
His loan move to Cairo presents a fresh challenge and an opportunity to showcase his talents on a larger stage, potentially earning him a permanent place in the club’s future plans.
The signing of Mahmoud Bentayg is a clear signal of Zamalek’s intent to strengthen their ranks and maintain their competitive edge.
Fans of the club will be eagerly anticipating his debut, hopeful that his addition will contribute to a successful campaign across all competitions.
