Al Ahly have temporarily halted negotiations over renewing player contracts, including that of Emam Ashour, as the club prioritises key fixtures at the closing stage of the 2025–2026 season.
Club officials have opted to postpone all renewal discussions until the campaign concludes, with immediate attention directed towards upcoming matches in the domestic league’s championship phase.
Al Ahly are set to face Pyramids FC at the Air Defense Stadium before taking on rivals Zamalek at Cairo Stadium in what could prove pivotal encounters in the title race.
Ashour talks paused despite mutual interest
According to a source speaking to WinWin, the club had previously initiated discussions with Ashour regarding an extension and improved terms to reflect his importance within the squad. However, a series of setbacks disrupted progress.
“The club had previously spoken with Imam Ashour to extend and amend his contract to match his value, but the player suffered a collarbone injury, underwent surgery, then returned and contracted a virus,” the source said.
Despite the pause, the club’s stance towards the midfielder remains positive. The same source emphasised that Al Ahly continue to value Ashour highly within the squad structure.
“Al-Ahly appreciates its players well, but according to certain regulations related to matters set by football officials, the first of which is giving and contributing to the team, and the second is his commitment and effort, in addition to many other things, and Imam Ashour is one of the best players in the Egyptian League in general.”
Long-term extension still under consideration
While negotiations are currently on hold, the club has not ruled out revisiting the matter in the near future. Officials are expected to resume discussions once immediate competitive priorities are addressed.
“The club has a desire to extend and amend Imam Ashour’s contract, and we will talk to him in the coming period, but currently the focus is on the Pyramids and Zamalek matches,” the source explained.
He added that a formal proposal could soon be presented, potentially securing Ashour’s services for several more years.
“Ashour is not up for evaluation, but the performance and results this season have prompted the administration to put everyone in the football sector in that circle, but we will present an offer to Imam, and if he agrees to it, he will undoubtedly extend his contract until 2030.”
Ashour currently has two seasons remaining on his contract beyond the ongoing campaign, providing the club with time to negotiate without immediate pressure.
Broader contract strategy underway
Al Ahly are also managing a wider renewal strategy involving several first-team players. The club is prioritising deals for Hussein El Shahat and Ahmed Nabil Kouka, whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the current season.
Following that phase, attention will shift to extending agreements with Mohamed Hany, Ashour and goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir.
The source also expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to secure silverware this season, noting expectations that the team could go on to win the league title.
Squad preparations continue amid injury concern
Preparations for the upcoming fixtures are ongoing, with the squad completing a full training session at Mokhtar El-Tetsh Stadium on Saturday evening. All players were involved except Youssef Belamri, who is currently sidelined with injury.
Focus first, decisions later
Al Ahly’s decision to delay contract negotiations reflects a strategic prioritisation of on-field performance during a decisive phase of the season. While uncertainty remains over the timing of Emam Ashour’s renewal, the club’s intention to secure his long-term future appears clear. For now, attention remains firmly fixed on crucial matches that could define their campaign.
