Inside Zamalek’s Locker Room: An Official Probe Shadows a Goalkeeper’s Fine

Investigation underway into Awad’s case

A source within Zamalek disclosed the latest developments in the Mohamed Awad crisis, the White Knights’ goalkeeper, which began after his omission from the Kaizer Chiefs match in the second group stage round of the Confederation Cup.

The source told Kooora in exclusive statements that the administration decided to refer Awad to an official investigation to determine the dimensions of the crisis, noting that any punishment remains subject to the views of Abd al-Nasser Mohammed, the football director, and Ahmed Abdel-Raouf, the coach.

The source stressed that if investigation results prove the player committed no fault, the financial penalty would be lifted immediately and his standing within the team restored.

What happens next for Zamalek

Separately, the source denied any personal rift between Awad and coach Ahmed Abdel-Raouf, explaining that the root of the crisis lies in the goalkeeper’s objection to a previous fine imposed by Abd al-Nasser Mohammed against him.

Because the player rejected this punishment, he personally requested to be referred to the official investigation to examine the reasons and rules on which the football director based the fine, which the administration approved.

Mohamed Awad is scheduled to face the investigation in the coming days, as part of efforts to end the debate surrounding his stance and determine whether the penalty will be upheld or cancelled.

This move comes at a sensitive time as Zamalek strives to keep the squad united, especially in goal, to avoid new shocks that could affect the team’s progress in upcoming fixtures.

Punchline time: If the fine sticks, Awad will start saving pennies instead of saves. If it doesn’t, he’ll celebrate with a clean sheet and a clean slate for the books.

Bonus punchline: In football as in life, when the paperwork is heavier than the crossbar, you know you’re dealing with a real goalkeeper of paperwork.”