Zamalek SC has taken its ongoing contractual conflict with former player Ahmed Zizo to Egypt’s parliament, as the club’s treasurer calls for state intervention in football contract regulations. The move comes amid a heated dispute that intensified after Zizo joined rivals Al Ahly on a free transfer.
Parliamentary Action Over Zizo’s Contract
Dr. Hossam El-Mandouh, Zamalek’s treasurer and a member of Egypt’s parliament, revealed on Sunday that he plans to raise the issue in the legislative body. He expressed frustration over what he described as inconsistencies in player contracts.
“A player demanded 80 million Egyptian pounds per season from us, yet his registered contract with the football association shows only 5 million pounds. Does that make any sense?” El-Mandouh said in televised remarks.
He added that Zizo is not the only case, stating, “There are other contracts with similar patterns. I will bring this up in parliament, and the state must intervene to review player contract files. When Hani Abou Rida, the head of the Egyptian Football Association, says some contracts are valid and others are not, it certainly raises questions.”
Background of the Zizo Dispute
Zizo rejected a contract renewal with Zamalek, leading to a bitter fallout between the player and the club. The situation escalated when he moved to arch-rivals Al Ahly as a free agent. Both parties have filed complaints with the Egyptian Football Association, and the matter remains unresolved.
New Developments on Pezeira’s Situation
El-Mandouh also provided an update on Brazilian forward Juan Pezeira, who has been absent from the club since the start of the season. He confirmed that Pezeira is expected to return to Cairo within days.
“We are handling this matter through official and legal channels,” El-Mandouh stated. “In life, some issues require negotiation, and we are communicating formally and legally to achieve the best possible outcome.”
He emphasized that any discussion about selling the player would only happen after his return and direct talks. “Selling him will not occur until he comes back and we speak with him. That is what we have told him. Our legal position is solid, and if he does not return, there will be severe legal measures,” he warned.
El-Mandouh also reiterated that Zamalek has officially demanded $6 million for Pezeira’s transfer, as stated in a club announcement.
What’s Next for Zamalek?
The club appears determined to pursue both matters through formal avenues, with the parliamentary angle adding a new dimension to the Zizo case. Meanwhile, Pezeira’s return could pave the way for either his reintegration or a potential transfer, depending on negotiations.