The former Egyptian FA president: No Interference in Disciplinary Decisions or CAF Hosting Bids

The former head of the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), Gamal Allam, has spoken out about recent scandals, such as the disciplinary rulings pertaining to Pyramids vs. Al Ahly in the Egyptian Premier League on July 22.

Speaking on “Al-Kora Ma’a Faik” on MBC Masr 2, Allam stated that the incidents investigated by the Disciplinary Committee could have been resolved by the Competitions Committee. However, the matter was referred to the Disciplinary Committee on the latter’s recommendation.

Allam denied interfering in any disciplinary rulings or withholding decisions. He emphasized that had he received the committee’s decisions, he would have promptly notified the clubs, regardless of whether the outcomes were publicly announced.

CAF Hosting Controversy

Allegations that Allam mismanaged Egypt's bid to host the 2022 CAF Champions League final were also addressed. He clarified that although the deadline had already passed on January 28, the EFA board was notified of CAF's invitation to bid at a meeting on February 8, 2022.

“We received an official request from Pyramids to host the Confederation Cup final, but no other team submitted a bid. It seems Pyramids had prior knowledge of the opportunity,” Allam said. He noted that he attended the Champions League final between Al Ahly and Wydad in Morocco and felt as though the match was played in Egypt, highlighting the strong Egyptian fan presence.

On Carlos Queiroz’s Departure

Responding to allegations of forcing Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz out of his role with the national team, Allam refuted the claims. “We did everything to keep Queiroz. He expressed his desire to leave after failing to qualify for the 2022 World Cup, citing his father’s illness,” Allam explained.

He added that external influences may have led Queiroz to believe the EFA wanted him gone. “The board never considered dismissing him. He reached the AFCON final and narrowly missed World Cup qualification against Senegal under extreme conditions.”

Ramadan Sobhi Doping Allegations

Allam also dismissed accusations of implicating Pyramids player Ramadan Sobhi in doping allegations. “I never mentioned his name. The journalist I spoke with was the one who brought it up,” he clarified.

Despite having personally backed Zamalek prior to taking office, the former EFA president emphasized his neutrality during his tenure.