Former Al Ahly star Diaa El-Sayed believes the Egyptian giants should prioritise the return of Mohamed Abdelmonem as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of the 2026/27 season.
El-Sayed argues that Al Ahly should avoid taking a gamble on an inexperienced centre-back after their recent experience with Moroccan defender Ashraf Dari, who has struggled to establish himself at the club.
Speaking on ON Sport FM, El-Sayed said the Red Castle need a defender whose qualities and capabilities are already well known.
“Al Ahly will not take a risk with a new player or repeat the experience of Moroccan Ashraf Dari, or sign a young defender without experience, but it should sign a player who knows his capabilities well, for example Mohamed Abdelmonem.”
According to El-Sayed, Abdelmonem’s return could benefit both the club and the player.
“Just as Al Ahly needs Mohamed Abdelmonem to return, the player needs to return to Al Ahly in order to regain the atmosphere of participating in matches.”
Abdelmonem has endured a difficult spell in France with Nice, with injuries limiting his involvement and keeping him out for much of the previous season.
The former Al Ahly defender left the Egyptian club for Nice after establishing himself as an important member of the Red Giants’ defence and earning international recognition with Egypt.
El-Sayed believes returning to familiar surroundings could provide Abdelmonem with the platform needed to regain his rhythm and confidence.
Al Ahly continue squad rebuilding
Al Ahly have already made several additions during the current summer transfer window, signing Ali Mahmoud and Akram Tawfik from ENPPI, as well as Moroccan forward Soufiane Benjedida and Algerian Moncef Bekar.
However, the club are still looking to strengthen at centre-back before the start of the 2026/27 campaign.
