Does Zamalek chairman Mamdouh Abbas really believe that Amr Zaki can give the club his all despite being denied the chance to play in the Premiership? The combative striker had hoped to realize his long-term dream of playing in a competitive European league. The chance came up when Wigan Athletic tabled an official bid to sign Zaki on a season-long loan, with a view to a permanent switch at the end of the season. Everything seemed to be settled in Zaki's favor. An English move was more than likely to be completed as Zamalek did not voice any concerns over Wigan's bid. They always make their feelings known if they are not satisfied! However, all of a sudden, Abbas decided it was not the appropriate time to release his star.
Keeping Zaki at the Cairo giants would silence his critics/competitors ahead of his election campaign, Abbas believed. It was quite clear that the wealthy chairman took into consideration the approaching board elections. Keeping Zaki at the Cairo giants would silence his critics/competitors ahead of his election campaign, Abbas believed. He did not care about Zaki's interests. Abbas also forgot, or ignored, that he promised the Egypt frontman to grant him his wish once Zamalek win the Egyptian Cup. Zaki was the one who brought the cup to Zamalek after netting the winner in the hard-fought 2-1 victory over ENPPI. Zamalek have also deceived the player by offering him a one-year contract extension so that they can give him the green light to join Wigan on loan. Zaki put pen-to-paper but Zamalek did not allow him to leave. Abbas should be aware that Zaki will not be able to perform at top level if he stays at Zamalek against his wish.
