The transfer saga surrounding Ahmed Sayed “Zizo” has taken a dramatic turn after a series of revelations, denials, and match exclusions.
Earlier today, Egyptian sports presenter Ibrahim Fayek posted on his X account announcing prematurely that the Zamalek star is officially moving to Al Ahly come season’s end. The post immediately fueled speculation about the future of the Zamalek star, whose contract with the club is close to expiring.
The news sparked an uproar among fans of both teams, prompting a clarification from the player himself. In a lengthy social media post, the forward addressed the rumors.
“I’ve not signed for any club, inside or outside Egypt. If someone has my signature, let them show it publicly,” Zizo wrote on his official Facebook account.
He went on to express frustration with how his contract situation has been handled by Zamalek, pointing out that the club delayed any extension talks and has failed to pay overdue wages.
He also acknowledged receiving significantly better financial offers, reportedly five times higher than Zamalek’s proposal, but insisted he was still waiting on the club’s final word before making a decision.
“I’ve made it clear. I’m waiting until the end of the Confederation Cup before making any decisions. I just want the conversation about my future to happen directly with the club, not through the media,” he added.
Shortly after, reports emerged confirming that Zizo was officially excluded from the Zamalek squad to face Stellenbosch FC in tomorrow’s CAF Confederations Cup clash.
While no official reason was initially provided, sources from within the club suggested that Zamalek’s management had discovered Zizo had signed a preliminary contract with Al Ahly as far back as March 12. The terms of the document reportedly allow Zizo to keep hold of the signed agreement while he takes time to make a final decision.
Zizo’s message appears to be a final attempt to keep negotiations with Zamalek alive, even as signs increasingly point toward a summer exit.
If he does leave on a free transfer to join Al Ahly, the player would be the first to make the direct move across town since Sabry Rahil. The former Zamalek fullback made the switch to the Red Devils in 2013.
For now, the ball is in Zamalek’s court. But if no meaningful steps are taken before the end of the Confederation Cup campaign, Zizo’s next chapter could very well be written in red.