A wave of managerial changes is sweeping through the Egyptian Premier League ahead of the new season, with Hamza El Gamal emerging as one of the most prominent names after being appointed head coach of Al Ittihad Alexandria Club.
The Alexandria-based club confirmed the appointment in an official statement released on Tuesday evening, announcing that El Gamal would take charge of the team following the departure of Algerian coach Miloud Hamdi.
The move places El Gamal at the centre of a growing coaching reshuffle as clubs begin preparations for the upcoming campaign.
El Gamal recently left his role at ENPPI SC after the conclusion of the Egyptian League relegation group phase on 21 May.
Over the course of his managerial career, the former coach has worked with several Egyptian clubs, including Al Mokawloon Al Arab SC, Smouha SC, Ismaily SC and Telephonat Beni Suef, while also gaining experience in Oman.
His arrival at Al Ittihad is viewed as one of the earliest major coaching decisions ahead of the new domestic season, with other clubs also moving quickly to reshape their technical staffs.
Elsewhere, Modern Sport FC confirmed the departure of coach Ahmed Sami following the conclusion of the survival group matches in the league.
The club has appointed Reda Shehata as his replacement. Shehata most recently managed Ismailia Electricity during the previous campaign, overseeing the team after its relegation to the Egyptian Second Division.
Among the most significant developments has been the coaching situation at Al Ahly SC.
The Cairo giants announced the departure of Danish coach Jess Thorup by mutual agreement in recent days. Reports within the club indicate that an agreement has already been reached with Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta to take over leadership of the team.
Meanwhile, Pyramids FC are also searching for a new manager after Croatian coach Krunoslav Jurčić confirmed his departure following unsuccessful negotiations over a contract renewal.
Although the club has not officially named a successor, South African coach Pitso Mosimane has been linked with the role.
Not every club has opted for change, however.
National Bank of Egypt SC announced the renewal of coach Ayman Al-Ramadi’s contract, while Smouha SC also extended the stay of coach Ahmed Abdel Aziz.
At ENPPI, the club has handed responsibility to coach Mohamed Barakat following El Gamal’s departure.
Meanwhile, Ceramica Cleopatra FC confirmed it would continue with coach Ali Maher as clubs across Egypt continue to shape their plans for the coming season.
