[REVISION HISTORY]

Zamalek transfer ban, CAS appeal, and player disputes

Updated 14 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-09-12 22:51 UTC → 2026-09-16 05:33 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Throughout August and early September 2026, Zamalek continued to navigate financial and regulatory instability. While the club prepared for a 25 August CAS hearing regarding FIFA sanctions in the Konrad Michelak case, internal disputes over unpaid wages and player absences disrupted pre-season preparations. Internal tensions escalated as several players protested due to unpaid wages and bonuses. Abdallah El Said confirmed his intention to remain with the club but was fined approximately 2 million Egyptian pounds for missing training. Meanwhile, Angolan player Chico Banza returned to Cairo to resume training. The transfer situation involving Brazilian winger Juan Bezerra evolved through several stages. Following ~~initial~~ reports of a $4 million agreement with Shabab Al Ahli, Bezerra’s absence from training created a secondary crisis. By mid-September, ~~Zamalek neared~~ Bezerra announced his intention to leave, citing a ~~$6 million sale~~ “unique professional opportunity” and issuing an apology to ~~Shabab Al Ahli Dubai, structured with $4 million paid immediately~~ the club and ~~$2 million due~~ fans. Zamalek officials confirmed the player received the largest penalty in ~~January. Under this agreement,~~ the club’s history following an unauthorized absence of approximately 40 days. Negotiations with UAE-based Shabab Al Ahli ~~would also cover $150,000 in fines owed by the player. Bezerra is expected to return to Cairo to issue~~ Dubai are ongoing, with reports suggesting a transfer fee of approximately $5 million, potentially including an ~~apology and film~~ initial $3 million cash payment. The deal is currently pending a ~~video before finalizing his departure. Board member Ahmed Suleiman emphasized that any sale must compensate~~ response from the ~~club~~ Brazilian Football Confederation to verify Bezerra’s international status for registration and residency purposes. A deadline of 27 September has been set to resolve the ~~roughly $2.5 million in costs incurred during Bezerra's tenure.~~ transfer before the UAE registration window closes. Zamalek management intends to prioritize sale proceeds to settle outstanding debts and player dues, aiming to avoid further disciplinary actions or issues obtaining continental licenses. New internal crises have emerged regarding player Seif. Former player Farouk Gaafar expressed confusion over the club’s sudden desire to move Seif via loan or mutual agreement, noting the decision is “illogical” given that most teams have finalized rosters and Zamalek faces registration restrictions. Gaafar also highlighted concerns regarding Seif’s training regimen, reporting that the player has been instructed to train alone at 1:00 PM to avoid incurring extra club costs. Additionally, management is preparing to meet with Polish player Konrad Michalak Berezira and his agent to decide his future.

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