Ahli football director Sayed Abdul-Hafiz revealed that the management's incessant attempts to talk veteran midfielder Mohamed Barakat out of retirement came to no avail. Barakat, 35, announced he will not play professional football again in the wake of the tragedy that claimed the lives of 77 supporters following a league game at Masri, with a number of deaths taking place inside the team's dressing room. But now as the Red Devils aim to overcome their woes by resuming training for the first time since the calamity, the pacey midfielder seems adamant on quitting football after failing to show up with his team mates. “Barakat informed us of his retirement decision and we tried to convince him otherwise, but all our efforts were in vain,” Abdul-Hafiz told FilGoal.com. “We understand well how he feels; he is unable to continue on playing football after witnessing such horrendous scenes. “I just hope he would show up on Monday's training session as I am sure he would backtrack on his decision should justice be served and retribution be attained.” Barakat has been a key figure for Ahli since joining from Qatar's Al-Arabi in 2004, helping the club to a host of trophies ever since. The former Egypt international managed to establish himself as a living legend for Ahli fans as his name was usually coupled with that of club legend Mohamed Abou-Treika. Meanwhile, Ahli recommence training on Monday as they gear up for their Champions league round of 32 opener against the winner of the match between Coin Nord of Comoros and Ethiopian Coffee in March.
