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Zamalek Hit with FIFA Transfer Ban: A Winter Window That Might Freeze Your Favorite Signings

4 November 2025

Zamalek Hit with FIFA Transfer Ban: A Winter Window That Might Freeze Your Favorite Signings
Zamalek faces a winter transfer window shutdown amid fresh legal actions

Overview

Zamalek has suffered a harsh and shocking blow as FIFA officially announced that the club's player registration is suspended for the upcoming transfer window due to three newly disclosed cases in FIFA's transfer ban system. The decision places a heavy burden on management and threatens the team's winter plans to reinforce the squad.

FIFA disclosed three new registration stoppages against Zamalek that were not listed previously, meaning the club faces undisclosed financial demands. This development adds to a string of prior rulings against the club, including a case involving Mohammed Ashraf 'Roga' demanding 5,002,361 pounds, with the club warned of further measures.

Impact and Next Steps

The ban is the worst‑case scenario the administration feared, as no new signings can be registered in January until the cases are resolved and the amounts settled. It could cripple squad plans, especially after the departure of coach Yanick Ferreira, heightening the need for reinforcements.

With the club already distant from the title and facing strong expectations for the Egyptian Super Cup and continental contests, failure to strengthen could dent ambitions. The board, led by Captain Hussein Labib and Sporting Director John Edward, must urgently secure additional funds and begin negotiations with the involved parties.

Public communication to fans about the three new cases and the amounts is expected, as anger grows at results and ongoing administrative turmoil. FIFA's move marks a pivotal moment in Zamalek's modern history and threatens to turn the winter window into a nightmare for the club.

Roga Case

The Egyptian FA's players' affairs committee ruled in favor of Mohammed Ashraf 'Roga', confirming his right to overdue payments and creating fresh transfer-window pressure for the club.

The lawyer Ahmed Hefnawi confirmed the exact amount is 5,002,361 EGP and warned of a possible stop to registration if payment is not made, in line with EFA rules.

The club reportedly received formal notice from the Egyptian FA about the ruling, signaling further escalation if payments are not settled. This adds to the threat of sanctions as Zamalek bids to strengthen in January.

The article notes the ongoing risk to registrations and the pressure on management as they navigate this legal maze.

Sniper joke 1: If the transfer window were a shooting range, Zamalek forgot to load the bullets and is left firing blanks.

Sniper joke 2: FIFA's ban lands like a precision headshot of bureaucracy—a lot of paperwork, very little roster expansion.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did FIFA decide about Zamalek?

FIFA officially suspended Zamalek's ability to register players in the next transfer window due to three newly disclosed cases in FIFA's transfer ban system.

Who is Mohammed Ashraf 'Roga'?

A former Zamalek player whose late dues were recognized by the Egyptian FA at 5,002,361 EGP, triggering potential further implications for the club.

What could be the consequences for Zamalek?

An inability to register new players in January, potential liquidity pressures, and the risk of additional sanctions or forced player sales to cover outstanding dues.

Who are the club’s leaders mentioned in the coverage?

Board president Captain Hussein Labib and Sporting Director John Edward are highlighted as stewards facing the crisis and seeking a quick resolution.