Zamalek Unveils How It Settled a Payroll Saga Involving Bezira and Bentayik
16 October 2025
Background
In an official update, Zamalek’s football director, Abdel Nasser Mohamed, outlined how the club narrowly avoided terminating Bezira’s contract due to overdue payments. He noted that Bezira and his agent had raised concerns, but the player received a portion of his dues today.
The club’s statement confirms ongoing efforts to address financial crises with foreign players to prevent disputes that could destabilize the squad.
The issue was not limited to Bezira; Moroccan Mahmoud Bentayik also received part of his overdue dues, illustrating the club’s attempt to reduce debts toward foreign players.
The Players Involved and Response
Abdel Nasser also addressed Abdul Hamid Ma’ali, whose name had appeared in media reports about a difficult financial situation for meals. The club denied such claims, stressing that Ma’ali does not lack funds. Ma’ali is described as not fluent in English or Arabic, which has contributed to misunderstandings in coverage.
The club’s public statements aim to protect the image of the club and preserve professional discipline among players, especially amid ongoing financial challenges.
Outlook and the Upcoming Match
While navigating the financial squeeze, Abdel Nasser praised the fighting spirit and professionalism of the current generation of Zamalek players, noting their full commitment to training despite outside pressures. The club pledged to settle late payments as finances improve, with expectations that October resources will help.
Under Belgian coach Yannick Ferreira, Zamalek aims to turn a new page with the fans by focusing on the continental campaign, starting with a crucial CAF Confederation Cup first leg against Dikidaha of Somalia, scheduled at Cairo International Stadium on Saturday.
The CAF appointed Ethiopian referees to officiate the match, with a center official and assistants named, and a fourth official listed. A Sudanese supervisor and Algerian observers are also assigned to monitor the game. The return leg is set for October 24 at Al Salam Stadium.
Historically, Zamalek has dominated this matchup in 2019/2020, with a 7-0 win in the first leg and a 6-0 win in the rematch, both at Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria due to Somalia’s stadium constraints. The current side will approach the tie with caution, avoiding overconfidence as African football remains unpredictable.
Punchline: In football, the heaviest weight on the payroll is not the ball but the balance sheet—some things don’t bounce back as easily as a shot on target.
Punchline: If money talks, football clubs should hire a translator, because right now the receipts speak louder than the cheers.
