Zamalek coach Mohamed Helmi (Ahram)
Despite reports suggesting coach Mohamed Helmi's days were numbered, Zamalek opted to give him a vote of confidence on Saturday.
Outspoken chairman Mortada Mansour launched a scathing attack on Helmi following a stunning 2-1 defeat by El-Entag El-Harby in the Egyptian Premier League on Wednesday, criticizing his decision to rest some regulars after they took part in the African Nations Cup with Egypt.
The loss prevented Zamalek from narrowing the gap with leaders Ahly, who were held to a 0-0 draw by Ismaily earlier in the day but are now 12 points clear of the White Knights, who have two matches in hand.
Helmi, Zamalek's third coach of the season after Moemen Soliman and Mohamed Salah were dismissed, led his side to an easy 2-0 win over lower-tier Olympic in the Egypt Cup round of 32 on Friday but widespread reports said he was on his way out.
However, Mansour decided following a meeting with the 54-year-old on Saturday to keep him at the helm as Zamalek, African Champions League runners-up under Moemen Soliman last year, chase a domestic double.
Helmi won his first trophy with Zamalek when they defeated bitter rivals Ahly 3-1 on penalties following a 0-0 draw in the Egyptian Super Cup earlier this month.
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