- Full Name: Amr Zaki
- Date of Birth: April 1, 1983
- Place of Birth: Cairo, Egypt
- Nationality: Egyptian
- Position: Forward
- Height: 183 cm
- Weight: 82 kg
Football Career
Beginnings at Arab Contractors:
Amr Zaki began his football career at Arab Contractors Club, where he was known for his physical strength, speed, and goal-scoring ability. He played for Arab Contractors from 2000 to 2006 and quickly became one of the standout forwards in the Egyptian Premier League. He scored many goals and played a significant role in the team's performance, catching the attention of top clubs.
Move to Zamalek SC:
In 2006, Amr Zaki moved to Zamalek SC, one of Egypt's most prominent clubs. His impact at Zamalek was immediate as he became a key player in the team’s attack. He scored numerous goals in the Egyptian Premier League, Egypt Cup, and African competitions. Zaki played a vital role in helping Zamalek win the Egypt Cup in 2008, scoring a crucial goal in the final against Enppi, which helped the team clinch the title.
Move to Wigan Athletic (England):
In 2008, following his stellar performances with Zamalek, Amr Zaki moved to Wigan Athletic in the English Premier League on loan. He had an impressive debut season in England, scoring several goals and becoming one of the standout forwards in the league. Despite a strong start, injuries hindered his consistency, affecting his overall impact at the club.
Return to Zamalek SC:
In 2013, Amr Zaki returned to Zamalek SC after his stint in Europe. Although his performances were affected by injuries, he continued to contribute to Zamalek’s attack and scored important goals in local competitions. However, he was unable to replicate the same form he had earlier in his career.
Later Transfers and Retirement:
After his return to Zamalek, Amr Zaki had brief stints with other Egyptian clubs before retiring in 2016. Despite the challenges with injuries, Zaki remained one of Egypt's most skilled forwards of his generation.
Major Achievements
With Zamalek SC:
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Egyptian Premier League:
- Despite challenges during his time at Zamalek, Zaki was instrumental in enhancing the team's attack and scored crucial goals in various matches.
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Egypt Cup:
- Played a significant role in Zamalek's victory in the Egypt Cup 2008, where he scored a key goal in the final, contributing to the team’s triumph.
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CAF Champions League:
- While Zamalek didn’t win the continental title during his tenure, Zaki was an important part of the team in CAF Champions League campaigns and helped the club achieve important victories in African competitions.
With Egypt National Team:
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Africa Cup of Nations:
- Amr Zaki was part of the Egyptian national team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2006 and 2008. He played a central role in the attack and was one of the tournament’s top scorers, particularly in 2008, when Egypt successfully defended their title.
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World Cup Qualifiers:
- Although Egypt did not qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Amr Zaki played a key role in the qualifiers, scoring crucial goals and helping the team perform well in the campaign.
Playing Style
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Goal-Scoring Ability:
Amr Zaki was known for his exceptional goal-scoring skills. He could score from a variety of situations, including powerful long-range shots and clinical finishes. His ability to finish was one of his standout qualities, making him one of the top forwards in Egyptian football. -
Aerial Ability:
Zaki was also known for his aerial prowess, especially in set-piece situations. His strength and height made him a constant threat in the air, particularly during corners and crosses into the box. -
Physical Strength and Speed:
Zaki’s physical attributes, including his strength and speed, allowed him to outmuscle defenders and use his pace to exploit spaces. His combination of power and speed made him a dangerous player for opposing defenses. -
Team Play and Smart Passing:
Despite being a forward, Zaki was also known for his team play and intelligent passing. He often helped build attacks and set up his teammates with well-timed passes. His tactical awareness and ability to read the game made him an asset in both individual and team-based play.
Life Outside Football
Amr Zaki was known for his strong and charismatic personality both on and off the field. He was highly focused on his training despite struggles with injuries. Zaki showed professionalism throughout his career and was a role model for younger players.
Off the field, Zaki was also interested in activities beyond football, particularly family life. After his retirement, he became involved in some social projects and other personal ventures. Despite his early struggles with injuries, he remained a respected figure in Egyptian football, contributing to both his club and national team.
Amr Zaki is regarded as one of the best forwards to have played for Zamalek SC and one of the top forwards in Egyptian football history, leaving a lasting impact on both local and international levels.