Zamalek have issued an official statement announcing the end of its relationship with Ahmed Sayed Zizo following recent developments surrounding the player’s future.

Ahmed Sayed Zizo was excluded from the squad for the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final second leg against South Africa’s Stellenbosch, amid reports that the player had signed a preliminary contract with rivals Al Ahly.

In the statement, Zamalek confirmed that all negotiations with Zizo had reached a dead end, and that the player will not be part of the team beyond the expiration of his current contract. The club has also referred Zizo to internal disciplinary proceedings over what it described as “offensive and misleading” public remarks made by the player.

Below is the full translated version of Zamalek’s statement:

“Guided by the principles that the current Zamalek board, led by president Hussein Labib, has adhered to since taking office in late 2023, and in the spirit of transparency with our loyal supporters, the club wishes to clarify the following:

  • 1. The club has approached the renewal of Ahmed Mostafa Mohamed Sayed (Zizo)’s contract with full seriousness and in a manner consistent with our financial strategy, one that ensures the stability of the football team and adheres to the principles of financial fair play, not just in words but in action.
  • 2. Despite several scheduled negotiation sessions, the player and his father consistently failed to follow through, citing unconvincing reasons. This demonstrated a clear lack of intent to reach an agreement. As a result, the club has decided that Zizo will no longer be part of the squad after his contract expires, as the relationship has reached a point of no return.
  • 3. Zizo will be referred to the club’s disciplinary committee over recent statements that included false and misleading claims, which misrepresent the considerable support and benefits the player received from the club since joining in 2019.
  • 4. Zamalek affirms that no player, regardless of their status or importance, will have a place at the club if they enter into official negotiations with another team without prior consent. This policy is non-negotiable, as Zamalek’s legacy and strength have never relied on any individual.
  • 5. As for the renewal of contracts and new signings for next season, the club is following a clear strategy that prioritizes both the club’s interests and the fair treatment of its players. The results of this process will be announced soon, with full transparency.
  • 6. Finally, the club stresses that its silence in recent days regarding the last Cairo derby should not be mistaken for weakness. Zamalek remains fully committed to applying the appropriate disciplinary measures and refuses to engage in public spats that compromise the integrity of the game. We reaffirm our ability to handle the current situation in a way that preserves the club’s dignity and status.”

Earlier reports from the club also confirmed that Zizo was officially left out of the Stellenbosch matchday squad due to his signing of a preliminary contract with Al Ahly on March 12, pending final confirmation from the player.