Former Al Ahly player and current Al Mokawloon Al Arab defender Louay Wael has said that last season of the Egyptian Premier League was among the most competitive in recent years, insisting that Zamalek were deserved champions despite the challenges they faced.
Speaking in an interview with the “Nile League Stars” programme hosted by Ahmed Al-Masry on ON Sport FM, Wael reflected on a season he described as both physically and mentally demanding for all teams involved.
He said Zamalek’s ability to overcome difficulties throughout the campaign, including internal problems and external pressures, made their title win particularly significant. He also credited the coaching work of Moataz Gamal, stating that the team succeeded under difficult circumstances to secure what he described as a hard-earned championship.
Wael praised all teams that remained in contention for the title until the final stages of the season, saying the competition remained open until the last whistle of the final round.
Shock over Ismaily relegation
One of the strongest reactions from Wael came when discussing the relegation of Ismaily, a club with a long history in Egyptian football.
He described the drop as both “sad” and “shocking”, adding that it was difficult to accept given the club’s standing in Egyptian football history and its large supporter base.
Wael said he hoped Ismaily would return quickly to the top flight, stressing that the club remains one of the country’s most respected sides despite its recent struggles.
Difficult season and coaching changes
Reflecting on his own team’s campaign, Wael said the season began poorly in terms of results. He explained that inconsistent performances and bad luck in key matches affected the team’s progress early on.
He highlighted the impact of technical director Sami Qumsan, under whom he previously worked during his time at Al Ahly, noting that Qumsan attempted to change the team’s playing style and improve results during the season.
Wael also described the season as extremely challenging, pointing to a congested fixture schedule in which matches were played every three days. He said the pressure created a difficult environment both physically and psychologically for players across the league.
He added that his team often found themselves close to safety or stability only for setbacks to occur, which he felt prevented them from building momentum.
Praise for Pyramids’ rise
Wael also commented on the growing competitiveness of Pyramids, saying the club had quickly established itself as a major force in Egyptian football.
He noted that Pyramids entered the league with ambition and quickly began competing with Al Ahly and Zamalek for titles, going on to win several trophies and establish themselves as a consistent challenger.
However, Wael stressed that despite their rapid rise, sustained competition with Egypt’s traditional giants would require time and long-term stability.
“Al Ahly and Zamalek in a league of their own”
Concluding his remarks, Wael said it would be difficult for any club to displace Al Ahly and Zamalek from their dominant position in Egyptian football in the coming years.
He said both clubs have long-standing traditions, strong structures and winning histories that set them apart from other teams in the league.
While acknowledging Pyramids’ progress, he maintained that Egypt’s football hierarchy remains firmly led by its two biggest clubs, describing them as operating “in a league of their own.”
