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Zamalek in Talks to Hire Mikali as White Initiative Buoys the Deal

5 January 2026

Zamalek in Talks to Hire Mikali as White Initiative Buoys the Deal
Zamalek weighs Mikali's appointment amid a funding plan

Negotiations with Mikali Move Forward as White Initiative Takes Shape

Zamalek's management is racing to close the coaching file, entering intensive talks with Brazilian Rogério Mikali, the former Egypt Olympic team coach.

Sources told KOOORA that the White side is pressing to trim his monetary demands so the overall salary falls below $45,000 per month.

The club's plan preserves the current assistant staff while granting Mikali flexibility to bring in one or two foreign aides to ensure quick harmony and lower costs.

A relative financial breakthrough has emerged as businessmen affiliated with the club have shown willingness to shoulder the total cost of the foreign head coach and his staff.

This initiative aims to ease the treasury's burden amid big challenges, giving the board more breathing room in negotiations.

Season Start and Coaching Changes

Earlier this season, Zamalek started under Belgian coach Yanick Ferreira, who was dismissed in November; the interim manager was Ahmed Abdel-Raouf, who recently announced his departure.

If the deal goes through, the White Knights would avoid a big payroll shock and still preserve some domestic continuity—because in football, even a plan A needs a plan A to stay awake during meetings.

Punchline 1: If negotiating salaries were a sport, Zamalek would have the transfer market wrapped around its finger—and the trophy would be a receipt.

Punchline 2: And remember, a budget that dreams in dollars per month is more dramatic than any free kick. But hey, football loves drama and spreadsheets alike.

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Emma Amme

I am Emma Amme, an English sports journalist born in 1998. Passionate about astronomy, contemporary dance, and handcrafted woodworking, I share my sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Zamalek negotiating with for the head coach position?

Brazilian Rogério Mikali, former coach of Egypt's Olympic team.

What is the proposed funding plan?

Businessmen affiliated with Zamalek have offered to cover the total salary costs for Mikali and his staff.

What happened earlier this season at Zamalek?

The club started with Belgian coach Yanick Ferreira, who was dismissed in November; Ahmed Abdel-Raouf served as interim and recently departed.