Zamalek Under Pressure as Zizo's Contract Renewal Hangs in Balance

Hussein Labib, the manager of Zamalek, is having a hard time getting star player Ahmed Sayed "Zizo," whose contract expires at the conclusion of the season, to extend it. Zizo is currently free to talk with other teams and depart for nothing come summertime.

Reports say that Saudi club Al-Ettifaq has made a big offer to loan Zizo for six months, paying $1.5 million, with a chance to buy him later for $3.5 million. However, Zizo has reportedly told Zamalek they have until mid-January to meet his demands before he makes a decision about his future.

"Zizo wants his full signing bonus paid in full before he agrees to renew his contract," sources said, explaining that he won’t sign without this guarantee.

Meanwhile, media personality Ahmed Shobeir commented on the delay, saying that while Zizo and Zamalek have agreed on the terms, the club is still trying to clear some unpaid dues to complete the deal. "Zizo is loyal, but he won’t compromise on getting his money sorted," Shobeir added.

While their opponents are suffering in 16th place, Zamalek is in third position with 14 points as they prepare to meet Haras El Hodood in the Egyptian Premier League. The club is under extra pressure to maintain a good squad because of the current contract negotiations with Zizo, particularly in light of other teams' interest in its star players.