Essam El-Hadary to start a new era in his football career with a return to former club Zamalek
Zamalek have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Egypt and Wadi Degla veteran goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary.
According to Ahram Sport late on Tuesday, the player has agreed to join the Whites for two seasons after a meeting with club president Mortada Mansour. An official announcement will be made after the Egypt Cup final.
On Saturday, title holders Zamalek will take on Smouha in the cup final. The White Knights defeated Wadi Degla on penalties in the semi-final on Monday. The match that witnessed a superb performance by El-Hadary.
Despite agreeing a two year contract extension with Wadi Degla last May, the 41-year-old promised Zamalek president he would settle the matter with his club.
The former Ahly, Zamalek and Ismaily player played an instrumental role at Degla this season in both the domestic league and also the African Confederation Cup, though they were eliminated from the latter in round of 16.
El-Hadary was instrumental in helping Egypt win three consecutive African Cup of Nations titles, in 2006, 2008 and 2010, but abruptly fell out of favour with former coach Bob Bradley who relied on Ahly’s Sherif Ekramy in the World Cup qualifying campaign.
In February, he returned to the Egypt team for the first time in almost a year under the guidance of new head coach, Shawky Gharib.
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