Reading FC’s former head of football operations, Mark Bowen, defended Zamalek’s decision not to proceed with the signing of Ovie Ejaria.
Former Reading and Liverpool player, Ovie Ejaria, looked set to join the White Knights after arriving in Egypt for a trial: however, just as was the case with the two teams he held trials with this year, Oxford United and Plymouth, Ejaria failed to impress Zamalek and the deal fell through.
In an interview with Al-Hayat, the former head of football operations at the last club Ovie played for, Mark Bowen said: “Do I think Zamalek made the right decision regarding Ovie Ejaria? Absolutely.
“The player hasn’t competed in professional matches for about two years, and the club was right to evaluate him carefully, especially since he had a significant knee injury.
“Even if the club had decided to sign him, I would have advised them to offer a contract tied to his performance, linking his compensation to the number of games and minutes he plays. It’s a risky situation, signing a player who hasn’t played competitively in two years.”
Bowen clarified what might be the reason the player hasn’t played competitively in such a long time, explaining: “I believe the surgery he underwent was the main reason for his absence, it was a complicated operation on his knee. Time will tell whether his injury is chronic or not.”
He did offer positive remarks about the player’s ambitions during the time they shared at the club, stating: “I was head of football operations at Reading, and in his final years, Ovie wasn’t happy. He felt he needed to play at a higher level. He met with me and requested to leave the club.
“He may have had other demands, but Reading’s Chinese owners at the time were facing financial challenges. When Ovie was playing regularly, he was arguably one of the best players in the Championship.”
When asked what he knows about Zamalek, Bowen didn’t shy away from praising the club and its’ rich history stating: “Everyone in the world knows Zamalek. They are the White Knights and were Africa’s best team in the 20th century, with nine continental titles. They have a massive fan base, responsible leadership with plans for the club, talented players, and a manager capable of taking the team to the next level. This club is renowned worldwide, with a rich history.”
He also spoke about his relationship with Zamalek’s head coach, Jose Gomes: “I’ve known Gomes for five years, and we had a great relationship. He is an exceptional person, a wise coach, and very meticulous with his players.
“He builds strong relationships with them, and I can see him doing the same at Zamalek, where he has already won the Confederation Cup. I believe he can achieve even more.”
“I’d love to work with Gomes again, especially at Zamalek. It would be a great honor. Zamalek is a globally recognized club, and it would be foolish to turn down such an opportunity. Working with Gomes again would be a privilege.”
The interview concluded with the former Reading executive sharing his thoughts on Egyptian football: “The Egyptian league is strong, with competitive clubs like Al Ahly and Pyramids. It’s a constant battle between the top teams, creating a unique competition. With Gomes, the club’s management, and the passionate fan base, I believe it won’t take long for Zamalek to return to the top.”