Mahmoud Fathallah could stay at Zamalek because his late father wished he would so, the central defender said. The 28-year-old's deal runs out at the end of the season amid interest from Zamalek's arch-rivals Ahli to snap him up. "Before he passed away, my father told me to sit down with (coach) Hossam Hassan (to discuss contract renewal)," Fathallah told Dream TV. "I said many times before that I do not mind staying at Zamalek. I'm waiting to meet with the board to discuss the possibility of extending my contract." Fathallah is a regular member of Zamalek's starting line up and is considered one of the team's best performers. He usually partners Hani Saied or Amr Al-Safti in the heart of the White Knights' defense, which has been shaky so far this season. Ahli made no secret of their desire to sign Fathallah, who joined Zamalek from Ghazl Mahalla in 2007. They said they would approach him if he was available. The Egyptian international was part of the Pharaohs' 2008 and 2010 African Cup of Nations winning squads. His trademark header earned Zamalek a thrilling 4-3 victory over promoted MCDR in the Egyptian Premier League last Saturday.
