I’m Staying Put at Pyramids: Yorčić Doubles Down on Loyalty, Eyes Ashour and a Zamalek Duo

Yorčić’s Firm Commitment to Pyramids

Croatian manager Krunoslav Yorčić, head coach of Pyramids FC, sent a clear message to Egyptian authorities: he has no intention of coaching another Egyptian club in the future and remains emotionally attached to his current team, hoping to end his Egyptian journey within the blue walls of the club.

In a televised interview, Yorčić stated, “I am emotionally attached to Pyramids and I am very happy here. My focus is on the team until my contract ends; afterward I may consider offers abroad, but continuing in Egypt after this experience seems unlikely. Pyramids has become my second home, and I’m deeply connected to the players and the project.”

He also clarified that he has not entered negotiations with any Egyptian clubs during his tenure. He noted that years ago some agents approached him about coaching Zamalek, but he lacked sufficient knowledge of Egyptian football then. Later, while working in Saudi Arabia, he gained broader insight into Egyptian clubs and weighed several options, including Al Ahly, though he ultimately stayed in Saudi for a while longer.

Asked about taking over Al Ahly even temporarily during the FIFA Club World Cup, he replied, “Even if offered to coach Al Ahly for a brief period at the Club World Cup, I wouldn’t accept, because that window doesn’t allow real work or the achievement of clear goals.”

Saudi Experience and Regional Perspectives

Yorčić revisited his Saudi experience, highlighting dramatic changes in football in the region. He said the national teams are stronger and clubs boast high-caliber players. He follows the Saudi league closely and has a wealth of knowledge about clubs in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

He also voiced support for Al Nassr’s pursuit of the Roshen League title this season, praising the squad’s skills and performances despite a few stumbling blocks.

When comparing Al Ahly Cairo with Al Ahli Jeddah, he suggested that Al Ahli Jeddah has excellent players but needs better on-pitch organization and fairer distribution of responsibilities. He believes Al Ahly Cairo excels in structure and continuity, which helps sustain success.

Dream Signings and Salah’s Standing

On potential Egyptian signings, Yorčić expressed admiration for players across the domestic league. If given a chance, he would pick Imam Ashour from Al Ahly, and from Zamalek he'd target Hosam Abdel Majid or Nabil Emad Dongaa, praising their strong personalities and competitive spirit.

He also lauded Marcel Koller's tenure at Al Ahly, calling him one of the toughest and most accomplished coaches he has faced, appreciating the support he received from his club.

Regarding Mohamed Salah, Yorčić said Salah is one of the best players in the world. Decisions in football are made in split seconds, and Salah has the ability to decide games in those moments. He acknowledged that Salah sometimes faces quick criticism after matches, but he is confident Salah will return to his peak form swiftly.

In a separate note, he reflected on his pride in what he has achieved with Pyramids since taking charge. He emphasized the club’s early titles and the respect he has earned from fans, players, and management, crediting the collective effort of the board, coaching staff, and players for writing a new chapter in the club’s history.

Yorčić also discussed the difficulty of domestic competition, noting the presence of big rivals and massive fan support. He recalled a strong performance against Al Ahli Jeddah abroad and acknowledged past criticisms suggesting Pyramids did not know how to compete with Egypt’s giants, stressing that those perceptions have changed under his leadership. He paid homage to the club’s progress in the domestic cup final, attributing it to the players’ effort despite fatigue after winning the CAF Champions League.

Looking back at his continental journey, Yorčić remembered the group’s early days in Africa, describing a powerful, shared drive to achieve tangible results. He said he would have preferred meeting Sundowns in the final over a clash with Al Ahly, but expressed immense respect for Al Ahly’s history and capabilities.