Youssef Obama says his move away from Zamalek ultimately gave him the opportunity to achieve a major African title with Pyramids, while the forward has set his sights on earning a place in the Egypt squad.
The Pyramids player discussed his career, his departure from Zamalek, his relationship with coach Rulani Mokwena and the reasons behind his current club’s success during televised remarks.
Obama said representing Egypt remains one of his main ambitions and that he hopes his performances for Pyramids will bring him closer to a place in the national team. He added that he has not received any contact from the Egypt coaching staff in recent weeks.
Asked about the circumstances surrounding his departure from Zamalek and whether he had been forced out, Obama declined to discuss the details.
“I don’t want to talk about this matter, as I am currently at a club and I don’t want anyone to be angry with me, but I see the matter from another angle, as what we dislike may be good for us.”
Obama said his move to Pyramids eventually brought an achievement that had previously eluded him.
“When I moved to Pyramids, I was able to win the African Champions League after leaving Zamalek, and this particular championship was what I was missing, in addition to other championships that I won with Pyramids.”
The forward retains strong feelings for the trophies he won with Zamalek, particularly those achieved during difficult periods.
“God has blessed me with many beautiful things, and on the football level, the championships were the most important. The most precious championships for me are those that come in difficult circumstances, and most of Zamalek’s championships came in difficult circumstances. When you achieve a championship while some people doubt you, it has a different taste. All of Zamalek’s championships were beautiful, and the moment I felt sad was when I did not participate in the final of the century.”
Obama also praised his relationship with Pyramids coach Rulani Mokwena, saying the South African has created a strong connection with his players.
“Mokoena loves me and everyone who plays football. He cares about players who have the touch and technical ability. He treats us like an older brother, so every player wants to give his best for him, and thank God we are performing well.”
Pyramids have ambitions of competing for the league title, although Obama believes it is too early to assess how the season will develop after only five rounds.
“We feel that it is still too early, and the first five matches in the league do not indicate anything, as the season is still in its early stages, and God willing, God will grant us success in the league journey.”
The player also discussed the influence of Al Ahly and Zamalek and the atmosphere created by their supporters when the two clubs compete directly.
“The fans of Al-Ahly and Zamalek are among the largest fan bases in the Middle East and Africa, and their presence when they are rivals gives the matches great strength. For me, Zamalek’s fans are more difficult to beat when they are rivals.”
He added: “From my point of view, the Zamalek fans were an important reason for the team winning the league last season, because they create an extraordinary atmosphere, and I don’t think I will see anything like it again easily.”
Despite the presence of the two Cairo clubs, Obama said Pyramids see themselves as genuine contenders and will not approach competitions simply to take part.
“Al-Ahly and Zamalek are among the teams that represent a strong source of competition for us in the league, but we also represent a great club and the champion of Africa, and God willing, we will strive to win the league.”
Obama believes Pyramids’ progress is also the result of the structure established behind the first team. He highlighted the role of club president Mamdouh Eid, sporting director Hani Saeed and contracts manager Amr Bassiouni.
He said the club’s approach is based on professional management, selecting personnel for specific roles and working according to long-term plans.
Obama added that the administration seeks to meet the team’s requirements, including recruiting players according to its needs, organising training camps and creating conditions that allow the squad to concentrate on football.
He also described a strict approach to discipline within Pyramids, saying individual status does not place any player above the interests of the group.
The club rewards players for strong performances and holds them accountable when they make mistakes, while transfers are based on technical requirements rather than simply completing deals.
Obama also pointed to the unity inside the dressing room as another feature of Pyramids. He said players who are not selected remain involved in celebrating with their team-mates, reflecting the relationship within the squad.
He said some aspects of the dressing-room atmosphere cannot be revealed, but insisted that the club’s organisation, professionalism and fairness have helped create a united group.
For Obama, the objective remains clear: Pyramids want to compete for every available trophy and continue adding to the club’s collection of honours.
