Former Al Ahly defender Mustafa Younes has called for Imam Ashour to leave the Egyptian champions, accusing the midfielder of receiving preferential treatment at the club and making controversial claims about his behaviour before an African fixture.
Younes made the remarks during an appearance on Al-Shams television, where he discussed several issues surrounding Egyptian football, including Al Ahly’s recent performances, Zamalek’s financial situation and the management of the national team under head coach Hossam Hassan.
The former Egypt international was particularly critical of Ashour, arguing that the player had been given privileges that no other footballer in Al Ahly’s history had enjoyed.
He insisted that the midfielder’s departure would be the best option for the club, raising questions about the influence some players have within the dressing room.
Younes also made allegations about Ashour’s conduct before an African match involving Al Ahly. He claimed the player attended a gathering in the Fifth Settlement area of Cairo before the fixture and allegedly told some of those present that he would not travel with the team for the match.
However, Younes did not provide evidence to support the account, and the claims remain unverified.
His comments have added to the debate surrounding Ashour, whose situation at Al Ahly has attracted considerable attention in recent weeks.
The former defender also questioned the attitude of certain players at the club, suggesting that some behave as though they hold authority within the dressing room.
Younes believes such circumstances could affect the team’s internal discipline and contribute to the difficulties experienced by the Cairo giants.
Younes questions Al Ahly’s recent performances
Beyond his criticism of Ashour, Younes also addressed Al Ahly’s recent decline in results, pointing to what he considers a growing confidence among their domestic opponents.
He linked the team’s difficulties, particularly following their match against Al-Qanah, to the increasing boldness of rival clubs when facing the Egyptian champions.
According to Younes, opponents have become less intimidated by Al Ahly and are increasingly willing to challenge them, a development he believes reflects the team’s current situation.
He also criticised former Al Ahly defender Wael Gomaa over his comments concerning the technical quality of Modern Sport’s players, describing the remarks as inappropriate.
Mustafa Younes backs investors taking control at Zamalek
Younes also turned his attention to the financial and administrative problems facing Zamalek, expressing support for a proposal that would allow private investors to acquire a majority stake in the club’s football company.
He believes attracting private investment could provide a practical solution to some of the difficulties affecting Egyptian football clubs.
The former defender argued that giving an investor 51% of the company’s shares would provide the necessary authority to manage operations and make important decisions.
He maintained that an investor committing substantial financial resources should also have sufficient control over the company’s direction.
Younes questioned the opposition from some Zamalek members to the proposal, suggesting that private investment could help address the club’s financial challenges and improve its administrative structure.
Younes criticises Hossam Hassan but defends Mostafa Mohamed
The former Al Ahly player also expressed reservations about some of the public statements made by Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan.
Younes believes certain comments from the coach risk creating unnecessary tensions around the national team at a time when stability is particularly important.
He called for Hassan to avoid personal disagreements and ensure that all players capable of strengthening the squad are given consideration.
According to Younes, maintaining a positive atmosphere within the national team will be essential as Egypt prepare for their upcoming challenges.
However, he was more supportive when discussing striker Mostafa Mohamed, whom he described as Egypt’s leading centre-forward.
Younes questioned the decision to leave the Nantes striker out of recent national team training camps, arguing that his exclusion does not reflect his technical quality or importance to the squad.
His comments highlighted his concerns about the national team’s selection decisions, while reinforcing his belief that experienced and capable players should not be overlooked.
Younes’ television appearance therefore covered three major issues in Egyptian football, with his criticism of Imam Ashour, support for private investment at Zamalek and concerns about Hossam Hassan’s management of the national team dominating the discussion.
