“Fatouh Zamalek is the true captain of the team.”
Murtada Mansour, the former chairman of Zamalek, responded to recent comments from former club president Mamdouh Abbas. Abbas criticized player Ahmed Fatouh for missing a match against Al-Masri.
Mamdouh Abbas sent a letter to Zamalek’s board. Mansour shared this letter on his Facebook account. He questioned Abbas’s motives for attacking Fatouh, stating that Fatouh is a key player for Zamalek. Mansour expressed frustration at the criticism Fatouh received, considering it unfair.
Mansour emphasized that many people abandoned Fatouh during his difficulties. He noted that an attorney, Ashraf Abdel Aziz, supported Fatouh during this time. Mansour urged fans to stop the attacks on Fatouh, warning that they could harm his football career.
What impact do public criticisms have on the mental health of professional athletes like Ahmed Fatouh?
Interview with Murtada Mansour on Recent Comments Surrounding Ahmed Fatouh
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us, Mr. Mansour. Recently, former Zamalek President Mamdouh Abbas commented on player Ahmed Fatouh’s absence from a match against Al-Masri, questioning his commitment. What is your reaction to Abbas’s comments?
Murtada Mansour: Thank you for having me. I found Mr. Abbas’s comments not only unnecessary but also quite harmful. Ahmed Fatouh is a vital player for Zamalek, and targeting him in such a public manner is unfair.
Interviewer: You shared Abbas’s letter on your Facebook account, which raised questions about his motives. What do you believe prompted this public criticism of Fatouh?
Murtada Mansour: It seems that Mr. Abbas is more interested in creating controversy than fostering a supportive environment for our players. Fatouh has been through a lot, and rather than attacking him, we should be rallying around him. His absence was due to legitimate reasons, and it’s vital that we recognize the pressures professional athletes face.
Interviewer: You mentioned that support for Fatouh was lacking during his challenging times. Can you elaborate on this?
Murtada Mansour: Absolutely. Many individuals distanced themselves from Fatouh when he needed support the most. It was Attorney Ashraf Abdel Aziz who stood by him and provided necessary assistance during that time. True support is crucial for any player facing difficulties.
Interviewer: What message do you have for fans regarding their treatment of Fatouh?
Murtada Mansour: I urge the fans to halt any negative comments and attacks on Fatouh. Such actions can seriously impact a player’s mental state and, ultimately, his career. We should remember that behind every athlete is a person who requires understanding and encouragement.
Interviewer: You also brought up a financial issue regarding a promised payment of £11 million from the club that did not happen. How has this affected Fatouh?
Murtada Mansour: Yes, that’s correct. This situation has not only affected Fatouh financially but has also tarnished his reputation. The lack of this promised payment has contributed to the difficulties he is currently facing, including the unjust criticism he is receiving. It is deeply disappointing.
Interviewer: Thank you for your insights, Mr. Mansour. It’s clear that you are passionate about supporting your players, especially Ahmed Fatouh during this challenging time.
Murtada Mansour: Thank you. It’s essential to protect our players and create a nurturing atmosphere at Zamalek. Football is not just a game; it’s about people and their well-being.
Finally, Mansour mentioned a promised payment of £11 million from the club that did not materialize. He stated that this failure led to Fatouh being defamed.