From El Hadary to Mostafa Mohamed.. Stars Who Sparked Controversy After Missing Training Sessions

The rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek goes beyond the pitch, as football history has witnessed several famous cases involving stars who missed training sessions due to disputes or transfer ambitions.

  Sat , July 18 2026 / 03:53 PM Updated At: 2026-07-18 15:53:46

⚽ Training Absences That Created Controversy in Football

The rivalry between Al Ahly and Zamalek is not limited to the football pitch, as the two Egyptian giants continue competing in the transfer market to sign the best talents and biggest stars.

Over the years, Egyptian and international football have witnessed several controversial situations involving famous players who missed training sessions because of administrative disputes, financial issues, or their desire to leave for new experiences. 🔥

These incidents remain memorable among fans, especially when they involve popular players connected to Egypt’s biggest clubs.


🦅 Ibrahim Said.. A Controversial Move to Zamalek

Ibrahim Said remains one of the most famous names linked with a controversial move between Al Ahly and Zamalek.

In 2004, the defender faced a difficult period with Al Ahly after missing training sessions amid growing tensions with the club.

The situation eventually led to his departure and move to Zamalek, creating major controversy because of his talent and popularity among both fan bases.

Said was considered one of Egypt’s most talented defenders and left a strong mark throughout his career.


🦈 Amr Zaki.. Wigan Training Dispute

Amr Zaki became involved in controversy during his professional experience with English club Wigan Athletic in 2008.

The striker missed training sessions after returning from international duty with Egypt during the World Cup qualifiers.

At that time, Zaki was enjoying a strong period after impressive performances with the national team, but the situation created questions about his future in England.

Despite the controversy, he remained one of Egypt’s most memorable attacking players.


🧤 Essam El Hadary.. The Swiss Transfer Shock

Essam El Hadary’s 2008 departure from Al Ahly remains one of the most famous training absence stories in Egyptian football.

The goalkeeper surprised fans after missing training sessions before it was revealed that he had traveled to Switzerland and signed for FC Sion.

The move caused widespread controversy because El Hadary was one of Al Ahly’s biggest stars and Egypt’s national team captain.

Years later, the incident remains one of the most discussed moments in Egyptian football history. ⭐


⚪ Shikabala.. The Portugal Experience Crisis

Training absence controversies also appeared during Mahmoud Abdel Razek Shikabala’s time with Sporting Lisbon.

In September 2014, the Portuguese club announced that it did not know the player’s whereabouts during a difficult period regarding his future.

Shikabala has always been one of the most talked-about players in Egyptian football due to his talent and strong connection with Zamalek fans.


⚽ Mahmoud Bentayg.. Financial Dispute at Zamalek

Moroccan player Mahmoud Bentayg became involved in controversy after missing Zamalek training sessions due to a financial dispute.

The issue was later resolved after discussions with the club management, allowing the player to return normally.

The incident highlighted how financial matters can sometimes create tension between players and clubs.


🐍 Mostafa Mohamed.. A New European Controversy

Egyptian striker Mostafa Mohamed recently returned to the spotlight after missing training sessions with French club Nantes following the team’s relegation.

Reports indicated that the club’s management and coach were unhappy with the player’s absence and considered possible disciplinary actions.

The situation reopened discussions about players’ relationships with their clubs and the reasons behind training absences.


🏆 Missing Training.. Pressure Tool or Career Risk?

Missing training sessions has become one of football’s most sensitive issues. Some view it as a pressure method used by players seeking transfers, while others believe it can damage a player’s reputation and relationship with fans.

Between historic transfers and temporary disputes, these stories remain part of football memories, creating unforgettable moments both on and off the pitch. 🔥⚽

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