Hosny Fires Back: Respect for Zamalek, Not a Slur — A Spicy Take on a Feverish Egyptian Derby
24 October 2025
Context: Hosny says his words were misinterpreted
Osama Hosny, the former Al Ahly star and current football analyst, responded to Zamalek's decision to file a formal complaint with the Supreme Council for Media Regulation, insisting that the statements attributed to him were taken out of context and not an insult to the White Knights.
What he said on air
In a phone interview on a TV program, Hosny firmly denied any intent to insult Zamalek, stressing his deep respect for the club and its long history.
He explained that his remarks concerned comments made by Ahmed Suleiman about Al Ahly's spending; he did not intend to attack Zamalek. “I spoke on the air two days ago, but some people cut my words and interpreted them in a way that is completely detached from the truth. I did not insult Zamalek at all; I hold respect for the club and its fans,” he said.
He added: “I never aimed to insult the White Knights or any other club; I deeply value my relations with all sides.”
“The statements were contextualized as a response to Ahmed Suleiman’s criticisms and the claim of billions spent by Al Ahly. It seemed improper to say such things on air from a board member of a major club, so I clarified my point without crossing lines.”
He noted that the relationship among Egyptian clubs should be one of mutual respect and recalled participating in the first joint live broadcast between his channel and Zamalek ahead of a derby, meant to foster sportsmanship and dialogue between the two giants.
He concluded: “Some people took my words and steered them toward a completely different direction. None of the original videos suggest I insulted Zamalek; the recordings prove otherwise. I reject any affront to any Egyptian club and I am proud of my relationships with all.”
Zamalek's formal complaint and other legal steps
The Zamalek board announced it would file a formal complaint with the Supreme Council for Media Regulation against Hosny for what it described as “inappropriate media commentary” and “false allegations” aired on a TV program.
The club stated that Hosny's remarks included negative insinuations about the club and its leadership, crossing from constructive criticism into “media aggression.” The club said it would present recordings and pursue legal action if necessary to protect its reputation.
Separately, the club also announced legal action against some Al Ahly fans for chants during a recent league match against Al Ittihad, which the statement described as insulting and aimed at stoking tension between clubs.
The club said it will file complaints with the Egyptian Professional Clubs Association and other authorities to curb chants and prevent further harm to sportsmanship and the dignity of people involved.
Additionally, the board has intensified efforts against rumors about the club’s land in 6 October City, arranging comprehensive dossiers and potential lawsuits against those spreading misinformation to destabilize the club and its management of assets.
Looking ahead and a broader note
The three-pronged push—actions against Hosny, against rival fans, and against rumor-mongers—sends a clear message that silence on excesses is over, and that the club will defend its integrity using all legal means available.
The club insists it does not seek hostility, but will not tolerate attacks on its dignity or name, calling for fair play and respect for the great Egyptian clubs that form the backbone of the sport in the country.
Punchline 1: If football were a courtroom, Zamalek would hire a top comedian to cross-examine the fans—because apparently, even the truth needs a good punchline.
Punchline 2: And if misquotes were goals, this saga would be in extra time, with the ref consulting the internet for VAR and still asking for a replay on Twitter.
