Zamalek to Face Ceramica in League Opener

Zamalek kicks off their Premier League campaign with a tough opening fixture against Ceramica Cleopatra at 8 PM next Friday at the Suez Canal Authority Stadium. The match will serve as an early test for both teams following significant changes in their squads over the summer.

Zamalek Signs 8 New Players

Zamalek made eight strong signings this summer as part of the club’s strategy to rejuvenate the squad and compete on all fronts domestically and continentally this season.
The club secured goalkeeper El Mahdy Soliman on a free transfer, defender Mohamed Ismail from ZED on a five-year deal, Ahmed Rabie from Bank El Ahly, and Ahmed Sherif and Amr Nasser from Pharco — all signing long-term contracts that reflect the club’s commitment to youth development.
In attack, the team added Angolan striker Chico Banza and Moroccan forward Abdelhamid Maali, blending experience with speed and technical ability.

Departures of Key Zamalek Figures

Zamalek also saw the departure of several prominent names, most notably Ahmed Sayed "Zizo", who joined rivals Al Ahly. Additionally, club legends Mahmoud Abdelrazek Shikabala and Mohamed Abdel Shafy announced their retirement from football after long and distinguished careers.

Ceramica Bolsters Squad with 7 New Signings

Ceramica responded to the new season by bringing in seven players across key positions. The new signings include defender Mohamed Maghrabi from Al Ittihad, Al Ahly duo Karim El Debes and Khaled Abdel Fattah, and goalkeeper Mohamed Tarek.
Also joining the squad are Karim Nedved and Amr El Solia from Al Ahly, along with South African forward Fagrie Lakay, in a move aimed at strengthening the squad depth.

Ceramica Offloads Several Players

On the flip side, Ceramica released multiple players, including Mohamed Reda Bobo and Mahmoud Abdel Hafeez Zalaka, whose loan spells ended. Mohamed Shokry and Ahmed Ramadan Beckham joined Al Ahly, while Nour Mohamed, Youssef Afifi, Mohamed Toni, and Mahmoud Metwally "Kanaria" moved to Al Ittihad. Samuel Amadi transferred to Smouha.