In a dramatic development within Zamalek SC, international player Ahmed Mostafa "Zizo" underwent an extended disciplinary hearing today at the White Castle headquarters. This comes after he officially appealed recent disciplinary sanctions imposed on him. The session, attended by his lawyer Ashraf Abdel Aziz, took place following a series of absences from previously scheduled hearings, as Zizo had failed to appear at three prior investigation sessions before finally facing the club’s disciplinary committee.

Zizo, one of the team's standout players in recent years, recently returned to solo training after an absence of nearly 25 days. His return has been clouded by ongoing controversy regarding his future and growing speculation about a possible move to Zamalek’s traditional rival, Al Ahly. Insider sources confirmed that the club’s management is now aware of an agreement between Zizo and Al Ahly, which triggered the current crisis and prompted the board to urgently refer him to investigation—especially after media statements the club deemed "offensive" and disrespectful to the board.

During the multi-hour hearing, Zizo and his lawyer presented their legal defense, aiming to annul the sanctions, which include financial fines and threats of suspension from upcoming matches. According to sources present at the session, Zizo insisted he never intended to offend the club, stating he was simply expressing his "pain" due to what he described as "neglect and exclusion" by some board members. He emphasized his deep respect for Zamalek fans and the legacy he shares with the club.

Tensions between the player and management have escalated, particularly as his contract nears its end, with no official announcements regarding a renewal. This has fueled speculation about a free transfer to a rival club next season—most notably Al Ahly—in a move that could shake the foundations of Egyptian football.

Meanwhile, Zizo continues individual training at the club's facilities under a special rehabilitation program developed by the coaching staff, led by Colombian coach Juan Carlos Osorio, in preparation for his potential inclusion in the squad for the upcoming match against Pyramids FC on Tuesday, May 13, as part of Matchweek 6 of the Egyptian Premier League at Cairo International Stadium.

This match comes at a critical time, with Zamalek looking to secure a positive result to restore balance to their league campaign. However, the coaching staff faces a significant challenge in managing the tense atmosphere within the squad, especially after the Zizo controversy, which has divided fans between those calling for his return and those who believe his actions disrespected the club.

While some advocate for reconciliation with Zizo, others assert that no player is bigger than the club and that Zamalek’s principles must be upheld—particularly if the rumors of him signing with a rival without informing the management are true. The club’s legal committee has yet to finalize its decision on the sanctions, but an official statement is expected in the coming days to resolve the issue, which has grown into a public and media storm that could affect team stability.

Though Zizo has not made any public comments since the hearing, sources close to him say he feels "betrayed" by how the club has handled his situation, especially after years of success in the white jersey—during which he helped win local and continental titles and became one of the top footballers in Egypt.

The case remains wide open, and the club's upcoming decision could determine Zizo’s future—whether he stays or departs—in what is shaping up to be one of the most explosive stories of the season. If the rumors of a move to Al Ahly prove true, it could mark one of the biggest shifts in the Egyptian football scene, igniting fan and administrative tensions in the months ahead.

Zamalek fans—and Egyptian football enthusiasts at large—are now eagerly awaiting the club's statement, as media and public pressure mounts for transparency. Meanwhile, the coaching staff remains focused on their most pressing mission: shielding players from administrative turmoil and concentrating solely on the high-stakes battle against Pyramids FC, which will be a true test of the team’s strength in the face of both internal and external challenges.

While many believe Zizo’s departure is only a matter of time, the door to reconciliation remains ajar—should the management choose to deescalate the situation and reopen negotiations. But the key question remains: Can Zamalek retain its brightest star, or has the train of departure already left the station?