Former Al Ahly defender Saad Samir has addressed speculation surrounding his 2022 departure from the Egyptian giants, denying claims that South African coach Pitso Mosimane played a role in his exit.
Mosimane joined the Cairo giants late in 2020 after guiding Mamelodi Sundowns to five DStv Premiership titles and the CAF Champions League. He went on to guide Ahly to two Champions League trophies during his three-year stay at the club.Â
Speaking to KingFut, Samir, now plying his trade with Cleopatra FC, offered a different perspective on his move, attributing it more to the challenging circumstances surrounding his return from injury and the club’s focus on winning trophies amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
DID PITSO MOSIMANE HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH SAAD SAMIR’S EXIT FROM AL AHLY?
“Pitso Mosimane had nothing to do with my departure from Al Ahly,” Samir stated. “After returning from injury, COVID-19 hit, and Mosimane joined Al Ahly right before the crucial Champions League semi-final against Wydad and then the final against Zamalek.”
“It was a tense and demanding period,” he continued. “There was no room for individual concerns, only winning the title. This was also true for Walid Soliman, who wasn’t a regular starter then. Mosimane actually maintained a good relationship with the senior players at Al Ahly.”
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Furthermore, Samir highlighted Mosimane’s inclusivity even during his own injury struggles. “In the final against Zamalek, I was injured, and he still insisted on having us in the matchday squad and camp to support and motivate the players. That shows how much he valued everyone’s contribution.”
By clarifying his reasons for leaving and acknowledging Mosimane’s leadership, Samir sheds light on a previously opaque situation. His comments highlight the complexities of navigating team dynamics and individual aspirations within the pressure cooker of elite football.