Cairo giants Zamalek have opted against signing Ugandan talent Jamal Mutyaba permanently after failing to convince head coach José Gomes.
Jamal Mutyaba, previously known as Travis before converting to Islam, had joined Zamalek in the winter transfer window from Ugandan side SC Villa on loan with option to buy.
During his time in Cairo, the 19-year-old winger made 11 appearances for Zamalek between the CAF Confederation Cup and the Egyptian Premier League, but failed to score or assist.
Zamalek fans had high hopes for the player following a solid debut against arch-rivals Al Ahly, but eventually, Mutyaba fell down the pecking order and started just five times to help the club win the CAF Confederation Cup.
Zamalek spokesman Ahmed Salem revealed the news, stating that his club signed $30,000 to acquire the player on loan last January and had the option to make the deal permanent for $150,000, which they opted against.
This comes as Portuguese manager José Gomes confirmed to the club’s board that he doesn’t want the player in his squad for the upcoming season.
After a disastrous 2023/2024 campaign in which their rivals Al Ahly swept all domestic trophies, Zamalek are trying to rebuild their squad to retain their CAF Confederation title and compete again for the league title.