Ahli captain Hadi Khashaba and veteran midfielder Sayed Abdul-Hafiz announced on Monday evening that they will retire from football at the conclusion of the season. "I decided to retire," Khashaba told FilGoal.com exclusively. "The details will be announced in a press conference on Tuesday." The 33-year-old midfielder/defender played a minimal role in Ahli's 31st Egyptian title campaign this season. Khashaba, who is hailed as one of the most decent players in Egyptian football history, opted to play a more motivational role rather than cause havoc within the team. The veteran player suffered a cruciate ligament injury that sidelined him for 6 months and after which he was tipped to land an administrative post in the club. "I will not coach, my future will be in the administrative work," Khashaba said.
Sayed Abdul-Hafiz On the other Abdul-Hafiz confirmed news reports tipping him to quit football. The 28-year-old midfielder fell out of favor with Ahli coach Manuel Jose and had to play on loan to Saudi side Al-Wehda for six months. Both Khashaba and Abdul-Hafiz helped Ahli win a host of local and continental titles during the 1990s and were known for their sublime performances. Zamalek captain Hazem Emam and Ismaili skipper Mohamed Salah Abou-Greisha will both attend Tuesday's news conference to honor the Ahli veterans. Ahli assistant coach Hossam Al-Badri also said that club president Hassan Hamdi, vice-president Mahmoud Al-Khatib, football committee member Tarek Selim and a number of board members, will also attend the conference. Ahli's coaching staff and players will also attend in a tribute to Khashaba and Abdul-Hafiz. Both players have one year left on their contracts with Ahli.
