Mohamed Elneny’s father, Nasser, has revealed his son will only play for Al Ahly if he decides to return to Egypt.
Elneny is currently without a club after his contract with Arsenal came to an end last summer, putting an end to his eight-year span at the Emirates.
The 32-year-old is currently the leading Egypt U23 national team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, putting in impressive performances in their opening two games against the Dominican Republic and Uzbekistan.
It is yet to be seen whether Elneny will remain in Europe, with several Turkish clubs said to be eyeing a move for him, while also UAE giants Al Jazira emerging as a potential suitors for the player.
However, Nasser Elneny, has revealed that his son wants to play for African champions and boyhood club Al Ahly, insisting the Reds would be the player’s only choice if he chooses to return back to Egypt.
Speaking to DMC, Nasser Elneny said: “Al Ahly is our first home and where Mohamed played as a child and if he returns to Egypt he will play for them.
“But if European offers come to Mohamed, he will look for what is best for him.”
On his son’s performance at the Olympics, the proud father added: “I can’t believe he’s playing at this level after that long period of absence.
“I hear what everyone else does. I’m happy with him at the moment and all my talk to him is just about encouragement.
“We hear about Gulf offers in the media and if there is something he will not hide it from me,” he added.
Adding Elneny to their squad will be a huge coup for Al Ahly ahead of their participation in the 2025 Club World Cup. His experience in Europe will help them in the newly formed competition.
The Reds have already lost Aliou Dieng to Saudi club Al-Khoolod, which makes Elneny a practical signing as he wouldn’t occupy a foreign player spot, which could be used in other areas.
Elneny played at Al Ahly’s academy before leaving the club to join Arab Contractors in 2008 and five years later, he earned his move to Europe through Swiss giants FC Basel.