Early Storms: Zamalek’s Summer Market Plans Clash with Harsh Reality

Zamalek SC is hopeful but also very uncertain about the 2024–25 season after ending a wild season with their 29th Egypt Cup victory. Major obstacles are already appearing in the way of the Cairo giants' plans to sign at least six important players this summer.

According to internal reports, sporting director John Edward and the club's technical committee are targeting reinforcements in the wing, striker, midfield (positions 6 and 8), and goalkeeper positions, with a preference for free agents or players out of contract. But four interconnected crises are threatening to derail Zamalek’s summer rebuild.

The 4 Crises Threatening Zamalek’s Summer Transfer Window

• Withdrawal of Mamdouh Abbas’ Financial Support

Former club president Mamdouh Abbas announced he will no longer finance new commitments, though he’ll fulfill current obligations, including the Egypt Cup bonus.

“I will not take on any new commitments,” Abbas posted on X.

This creates an immediate funding gap, especially since Abbas was a key figure in funding past transfers and rewards.

• Escalating Financial Crisis

Zamalek continue to struggle with deep-rooted financial issues, including:

Outstanding debts to former players, coaches, and clubs

FIFA-imposed registration bans over unpaid dues

Multiple ongoing legal disputes

Even if agreements are reached, these financial strains are having a direct effect on the club's capacity to sign new players.

• Al Ahly’s Transfer Blitz

While Zamalek are just setting their strategy, rivals Al Ahly have already completed marquee signings, including:

Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane

Trezeguet (Mahmoud Hassan)

Hamdi Fathi (loan for Club World Cup)

Ahmed Sayed Zizo

Ahmed Ramadan Beckham

Goalkeeper Mohamed Siha

These agreements highlight the Cairo rivals' disparity in terms of money and strategy in addition to reducing Zamalek's transfer choices.

• Pyramids FC’s Financial Muscle

Pyramids FC have gone from title challengers to market powerhouses. Their ability to offer superior financial packages has regularly seen them outbid Zamalek, especially for high-value local and foreign players.

With Pyramids likely chasing the same targets, Zamalek will find negotiations harder, particularly when dealing with free agents and high-demand talent.

Departures and Overhaul Underway

Zamalek have already placed several names on the offload list, including:

• Seifeddine Jaziri
• Nabil Emad “Donga”
• Mostafa Shalaby
• Mohamed Atef
• Ahmed Refaat
• Ahmed Mahmoud
• Hossam Ashraf
• Omar Faraj (loan ended)

But with no clear recruitment methodology publicly defined, the fear of individual interference and uncoordinated decisions looms large.

What's Next for the White Knights?

Despite winning silverware, Zamalek’s rebuilding project risks collapse without urgent financial restructuring and unified planning. With bitter rivals surging ahead, the White Knights face a race against time—and reality—before the summer window opens.