⚽ Tarek Yehia Raises Concerns Over Zamalek’s Youth Sector
Former Zamalek star Tarek Yehia discussed the situation of the club’s youth sector, stressing its importance in developing future generations and building a sustainable football structure.
Yehia called for greater attention to youth development and suggested that major clubs should invest more heavily in their youth systems and expand their ability to identify and develop young talent.
📢 “Zamalek’s Youth Sector Has Been Sold”
Speaking on Mega FM, Tarek Yehia said: “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.”
The former Zamalek player argued that expanding branches could give the club a wider talent pool and create more opportunities to develop players across different age groups.
🏟️ Why the Youth Sector Matters
Yehia added: “The youth sector carries the Zamalek name, so when they lose by big margins, it reflects badly on the club. The sector must therefore be given the attention that suits Zamalek’s name.”
In his view, teams competing under the Zamalek name also contribute to the club’s public image, making the quality of youth development an important part of the overall structure.
He also stressed that youth development should go beyond results and include appropriate facilities, coaching and player-development pathways.
👔 Yehia Discusses the Sporting Director Role
The former Zamalek star also addressed the sporting director position, arguing that the success of any sporting director depends heavily on having the financial resources needed to implement his plans.
“A sporting director cannot do anything for Zamalek without money. Jon Edward’s departure was because of money, and now there is no money at Zamalek. The club currently cannot sign a top-level player,” Yehia said.
His comments reflect his view that administrative expertise alone is not enough to strengthen the first team without sufficient financial backing.
💰 Financial Resources Remain Central
Yehia believes financial resources are among the key requirements for a sporting director to successfully implement his plans.
According to his view, the position requires a budget capable of addressing transfer-market needs, supporting the coaching staff and building a long-term strategy for the squad.
🕰️ Comparing the Situation With 2015
Yehia also compared the current situation with Zamalek’s position in previous years, referring specifically to 2015.
“In 2015, players were eager to sign for Zamalek. I support appointing a sporting director, but only with money available,” he said.
His comparison underlines his view that a club’s ability to attract players depends not only on its reputation but also on its financial capacity and transfer strategy.
🔥 Youth Development and Sporting Management
Tarek Yehia’s comments bring together two issues he considers important to Zamalek’s future: developing the youth sector and providing the financial resources necessary for the sporting administration and first team.
According to his assessment, investment in youth development alongside a properly funded first-team structure could form part of a broader approach to strengthening Zamalek’s football operation in the years ahead.
