Zamalek sweat on Omar Gaber’s fitness ahead of blockbuster clash against Al Ahly

Zamalek are sweating over the fitness of enterprising defender Omar Gaber ahead of their highly anticipated derby showdown against rivals Al Ahly SC in the Egyptian Premier League championship group.

The club’s medical team is currently reviewing the player’s latest scan results after he picked up an adductor muscle injury during Zamalek’s recent match against ENPPI SC.

Gaber was forced off during the encounter, which ended in a goalless draw, with Mohamed Ibrahim coming on as his replacement.

Initial assessments confirmed that the injury was muscular in nature, raising immediate concerns about his availability for one of the most important fixtures of the season. Given the intensity and physical demands of the Cairo derby, the medical staff are proceeding cautiously before making any final recommendation.

Zamalek’s technical team is now awaiting the outcome of the final medical tests, which will determine whether Gaber can return to group training or continue with an individual rehabilitation programme. His progress in the coming days will be crucial in deciding whether he features in the squad for the decisive encounter.

The timing of the injury has added further tension to Zamalek’s preparations, with the club already under pressure in the title race. The derby against Al Ahly, scheduled for next Friday in the fifth round of the championship group, is expected to play a major role in shaping the direction of the season.

Gaber’s potential absence would be a significant setback for Zamalek, given his experience and defensive stability in high-pressure matches. However, the club is determined not to take unnecessary risks, prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term gains.

As the countdown to the Cairo derby continues, all eyes remain on the medical room at Zamalek—where a final decision on Omar Gaber could prove decisive in one of Egyptian football’s most intense battles.