⚽ Zamalek Use International Break to Prepare for the Derby
Media personality Mohamed Khalifa discussed Zamalek’s preparations during the international break, saying the current period provides an important opportunity for head coach Mo’tamed Gamal to improve the team and prepare for the upcoming derby against Al Ahly.
Speaking on the “Hassad Al Youm” program on Zamalek Channel, Khalifa explained that the team is expected to resume training on Tuesday, with preparations continuing until the ZED match in the League Cup.
He believes the ZED game can serve as a useful test for several players and tactical ideas ahead of the October 11 derby against Al Ahly, which he described as the team’s most important upcoming test.
🔍 Mohamed Khalifa Identifies Zamalek’s Main Problems
Khalifa said that reviewing Zamalek’s five league matches and two CAF Champions League games reveals several areas that require attention.
He identified the right-wing position as one of the team’s most pressing issues, particularly after the departure of Brazilian player Juan Bezerra, who had occupied an important attacking role.
The coaching staff, according to Khalifa, should use the international break to test the available alternatives and find the most suitable solution before the Al Ahly clash.
⚠️ El-Dabbagh Needs to Regain Confidence
Khalifa also discussed striker Adi El-Dabbagh, noting that the player has not recently performed at the expected level.
He expressed concern that this could affect the player’s confidence despite emphasizing that El-Dabbagh possesses significant attacking ability and is, in his view, one of the best strikers in the league.
Khalifa believes the focus should be on helping El-Dabbagh regain his form and confidence rather than increasing the pressure around him.
🏃♂️ Gaps Between the Lines and Physical Issues
The media personality also pointed to other technical issues in Zamalek’s performances, including pressing, gaps between the lines and large spaces between players during certain matches.
Khalifa linked some of these problems to the team’s physical condition and expressed hope that the international break can help improve fitness levels and the players’ ability to move as a cohesive unit.
🔄 Esho as an Option on the Right Wing
Regarding potential solutions, Khalifa said Zamalek have several options within the squad, particularly with the team using a 4-3-3 formation.
He identified Esho as one possible solution on the right wing following his recovery from injury, calling for him to receive opportunities in friendly matches and against ZED so the coaching staff can assess his suitability for the role.
🏥 Gradual Return Needed for El-Gafaly
Khalifa also discussed El-Gafaly, explaining that the player has been absent for an extended period because of injuries.
As a result, he believes the player should not immediately be relied upon heavily, even after being declared fit.
A gradual return to action would allow El-Gafaly to regain match sharpness and rebuild his physical and technical condition.
⭐ Zamalek Have Several Striker Options
In attack, Khalifa noted that Zamalek currently have several options in the center-forward position, giving the coaching staff greater flexibility.
The available players include Hossam Ashraf, Ahmed Sherif, Nasser Mansi and Adi El-Dabbagh, as the technical staff continue to look for the most suitable combination.
🎯 More Options in Midfield
Khalifa also highlighted improved midfield options following the return of Abdallah, the expected return of Mohamed El-Sayed, and the continued preparation of Jihad.
He suggested that Rabie and Jihad could be used in the No. 6 role, alongside Abdallah and Mohamed El-Sayed, while Fattouh could also be deployed as a No. 8 depending on the team’s needs and the coaching staff’s plans.
🏹 International Break Offers Time to Test Solutions
Mohamed Khalifa concluded by stressing that Zamalek have internal options for addressing the right-wing problem and can also use different players in alternative positions.
He believes the international break gives Mo’tamed Gamal valuable time to test players and tactical ideas and settle on the best lineup and approach before the Al Ahly derby.
