Egypt midfielder Ahmed Hassan has confirmed he will be leaving Belgian champions Anderlecht at the end of this season and that a return to Egypt is a major prospect. ''I did not officially inform Anderlecht's board of my decision to leave the club, but they have already sensed that I'm not ready to continue,'' Hassan told Filgoal.com in a phone interview on Sunday evening. ''I have no problems with anyone inside the club, but personal reasons are behind my decision,'' Hassan added. The Egypt skipper joined Anderlecht this season from Turkish side Besiktas and made quick impact by establishing himself in the team as well as being a favorite for the Anderlecht fans. Hassan stated that by the end of March he should be able to decide on his next destination, after considering all possible alternatives. ''I received some offers from Gulf clubs recently and I'm considering them, even though they don't match my current contract in Belgium in terms of financials." The 31-year-old made it clear that Egypt is his most likely destination and that the chances of him returning home are "90%". The two-times African Cup of Nations winner has already been linked to Cairo giants Ahli and Zamalek, with the latter's chairman tipped to visit Hassan in Belgium very soon.
A return to Egypt is his first choice "I'd be happy to sit and talk with (Zamalek president) Mr. Mamdouh Abbass, who I have a special relationship with since he was on the EFA board." However, Hassan denied signing any contracts or making any commitments to a certain club while in Egypt for the international friendly against Sweden last February. "I'm a professional player," said the former Ismaili player. "When I do sign for any club, everyone will know about because I have no reason to hide it." The versatile midfielder responded positively to comments made by national teammate Ibrahim Saied who said in an interview with FilGoal.com that Hassan is the most popular Egyptian player in Turkey. "I thank god that I was able to leave a good impression in all the clubs I played for in my career," a modest Hassan said. He went on to extend a good gesture to former Zamalek player Saied who is currently plying his trade with Turkish outfit Rizespor. ''I have no doubts about Ibrahim's quality as an outstanding player, but he should put his recent problems behind to achieve more,'' said Hassan.
