⚽ Tarek Yehia Raises Concerns Over Zamalek’s Youth Sector
Former Egypt and Zamalek star Tarek Yehia criticized the way the club is handling its youth sector, arguing that the issue deserves greater attention because of its importance in developing future generations of Zamalek players.
Yehia said the club’s youth sector had, in his words, been “sold,” describing the situation as unacceptable from his perspective, particularly because teams carrying the Zamalek name are also part of the club’s public image.
📢 “We Need a Football Company That Generates Revenue”
Speaking to Karim Ramzy on Mega FM, Tarek Yehia stressed the importance of establishing a strong football company at Zamalek, saying it should not merely exist as an administrative structure but should also generate financial resources for the club.
“We want a football company for Zamalek that achieves dominance, control and profits, with the largest share going to Zamalek. The Zamalek name has not yet been properly utilized when it comes to the football company,” Yehia said.
In his view, the club’s name represents an asset that can be developed more effectively to generate resources for football operations.
🏟️ Criticism of the Youth Sector
The former Zamalek star added: “The youth sector at Zamalek has been sold, and this is unreasonable and unacceptable. Look at Al Ahly, which now has 12 branches. That is what I wanted for Zamalek.”
Yehia also pointed out that youth teams competing under the Zamalek name carry a responsibility toward the club’s image, particularly when they suffer heavy defeats.
“The youth sector carries the Zamalek name, so when they lose by big margins, it is a negative reflection on the club,” he added.
💰 Yehia: A Sporting Director Needs Financial Resources
Tarek Yehia also linked the success of any sporting director to the financial resources available to implement his plans, arguing that administrative and technical decisions alone are not enough to build a competitive squad.
“A sporting director cannot do anything for Zamalek without money,” Yehia said.
He argued that Jon Edward’s departure from Zamalek was related, in his view, to financial considerations, adding that the club currently faces financial difficulties that affect its ability to make major signings.
🔍 Comparing the Current Situation With 2015
The former Zamalek player compared the club’s current financial situation with conditions in 2015, saying the circumstances at that time made it easier to attract players.
“There is no money at Zamalek now, and the club cannot currently sign top-level players. In 2015, players were eager to sign for Zamalek,” Yehia said.
His comments highlight, from his perspective, the financial challenges facing the club in the transfer market and the connection between available resources and the ability to strengthen the squad.
👔 Supporting a Sporting Director With One Condition
Despite his criticism, Yehia said he supports the idea of appointing a sporting director at Zamalek, but stressed that the role must be accompanied by sufficient financial resources.
“I support appointing a sporting director, but with money available,” he said.
His position suggests that, in his view, a sporting director should operate within a broader structure that provides the necessary authority, budget and resources to implement decisions.
🔥 Zamalek Faces Several Interconnected Challenges
Tarek Yehia’s comments highlight several issues facing Zamalek, including the youth sector, the proposed football company, the first-team squad and the club’s financial situation.
According to Yehia’s assessment, improving youth development, attracting investment and strengthening the first team require a more robust financial and administrative structure, which he considers important to improving the club’s position in the coming period.
