Former Zamalek striker Gamal Hamza expects hostile reception from the white fans when he features for Gouna against his old club on Friday. Hamza left Zamalek last season for Bundesliga side Mainz but he returned to Egypt after just three months, failing to adjust to the demands of the German game. He wasn't contacted by Zamalek, whom he had tension with their fans and management before moving to Germany, and signed a six-month deal with Gouna. In February, Zamalek's arch-rivals Ahli announced landing Hamza on a three-year contract. "The fans used to boo me when I was a Zamalek player and I can't see why they will stop after I signed for Ahli," Hamza told FilGoal.com
Hamza's seemingly lack of fighting spirit on the pitch always triggered angry response from Zamalek crowds, especially as the team were struggling during the past four years. "The fans used to hold me responsible for the poor results. It was totally not fair because I was just one player. The whole team were to blame," he said. Psychological Factor Although his move to Ahli was anticipated, it left Zamalek fans frustrated because one of the derby's top scorers has swapped shirts. The 28-year-old international scored seven times against Ahli in different competitions on senior level and was Zamalek's top scorer in the derby in youth stages.
Did you know? Hamza won 12 titles with Zamalek, including the African Champions League. Hamza himself admitted it would be a bit awkward for him to play against Zamalek. "It is definitely difficult for me because it is the first time in my career I try to score against Zamalek," he said. "I have been there since I was a kid. But I am a professional player and will do my best so that Gouna will have the upper hand." Gouna are third from bottom on 21 points. They are involved in a six-team fight to avoid relegation. On the other hand, Zamalek still have slim title hopes, trailing leaders Ahli with nine points with as many games left in the season.
