Ittihad Cameroonian striker Edet Otobong
“Technically my team is ready for the competition. I am not worried about tactics but I am concerned about the players' morale, which is now at a low because of the financial crisis,” Amer told Ahram Online.
The President of the top Alexandrian club, Mohamed Mosselhy, has been forced to step down as he is a member of the former ruling party, the National Democratic Party. Mosselhy’s resignation has put the club in a critical condition, as he was their main source of funding.
“The players attend training regularly without receiving their salaries. The atmosphere isn’t healthy anymore, as we see many figures from the club offending each others in the media. Ittihad, one of the oldest clubs in Egypt, with a great history, is now threatened by relegation,” Amer explained.
The Alexandria-based club was established in 1906, and has won the Egypt Cup six times. However, they have been struggling over the past decade because of financial issues.
Mosselhy – a popular businessman in Alexandria - provided major support and managed to strengthen the squad but they still are trailing at the bottom of the Egyptian Premier League table, with 11 points after 15 matches.
A former Ahly and Egypt player, Amer rubbished all reports about his Cameroonian striker Edet Otobong possibly moving to Cairo giants Zamalek.
“Of course Otobong is staying with us. He trains regularly and participates in our friendlies.” Amer confirmed.
Ittihad of Alexandria won 4-2 in a friendly against Sekket Hadid Tanta on Sunday and they will play Al-Ragaa on Tuesday.
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