Zamalek's training camp recently witnessed an unexpected wave of tension during the team’s stay at a major hotel in Cairo, as part of their preparations for a friendly match against Ghazl El Mahalla. The match is part of an intensive pre-season program set by the new head coach in anticipation of the 2025–2026 football season.

While the team was residing normally at the hotel just hours before the match, Zamalek players and the technical and administrative staff were surprised by the presence of a group of Al Ahly fans gathered in the same location. These fans were not invited by any sports entity but were attending a public event at the hotel. However, things took an uncomfortable turn when some of them began chanting the name of Ahmed Sayed Zizo — a current Al Ahly star and one of Zamalek’s most high-profile departures in recent seasons. The chants were perceived by the Zamalek delegation as a deliberate attempt to stir controversy and provoke the team at a sensitive moment.

The incident did not go unnoticed. Zamalek’s Sporting Director, John Edward, expressed strong disapproval, describing the act as “provocative behavior” and emphasizing that it disrupted the focus and calm the team needed ahead of its official fixtures. Edward immediately approached the hotel management, voiced his dissatisfaction, and requested firm assurances to prevent such occurrences in the future — stressing the importance of maintaining a respectful and disturbance-free environment for sports teams during their stays and preparations.

The hotel management responded promptly by speaking with the Al Ahly fans and asking them to refrain from any actions that might escalate tensions. They reiterated the importance of respecting the privacy and concentration of professional teams in such settings.

The situation was ultimately defused without further incident. The Zamalek players proceeded to the stadium, where they secured a 2–1 victory over Ghazl El Mahalla in a friendly match that proved beneficial from both a technical and physical standpoint.

However, Zamalek’s following friendly match against Proxie ended in a surprising 3–1 defeat, prompting the technical staff to reassess certain tactical aspects ahead of the season’s kickoff.

The team continues its preparations in full force for their upcoming official match against Ceramica Cleopatra, scheduled for next Friday, marking the beginning of their journey in the Egyptian Premier League. The clash is considered a crucial test of the team’s readiness after a transfer window that brought several changes to the club — both in terms of player personnel and the administrative structure.