Zamalek's superb Egyptian Premier League run could be derailed by the persistent financial woes which could lead to the departure of Brazilian coach Jorvan Vieira.

The Cairo giants, who had already secured their place in the final round of a new two-group league competition, take on struggling outfit Ittihad of Alexandria on Monday amid uncertainty over the future of Vieira, who has turned around the club's fortunes since his appointment last summer.

The 59-year-old said last week he would not prolong his stay beyond the end of the season after growing increasingly frustrated with Zamalek's inability to fulfill their financial obligations towards him and the disgruntled players, who threatened to strike more than once.

"I will not extend my contract; the current situation is very bad. I and the players have not received our salaries for long," Vieira told a news conference.

"What I intend to do is to complete the season before leaving. This is a commitment I should fulfil as a professional coach. I just want to leave Zamalek in the best possible shape."

Recent reports said that Vieira had given Zamalek until 20 June to resolve the dispute.

His departure would be a big blow to the White Knights who are chasing their first league title since 2004, having finally showed they can compete with Cairo rivals Ahly after making their best ever start to the premier domestic competition.

They qualified for the decisive phase with four games to spare in Group B after winning 11 out of their opening 12 games.

On the other hand, Ittihad, who are struggling at the wrong end of the table, risk the prospect of being relegated after a string of poor results.

Ittihad, who are also blighted by serious financial problems, are second from bottom in the group on 10 points, five adrift of the safety zone with four matches remaining.

They joined several other struggling clubs in demanding that the Egyptian Football Association cancel relegation this season due to "a violation of fair play rule".

They complained about a number of issues including the EFA's habit of frequently changing venues for league games due to lingering security concerns in the country.

The top two in Groups A and B qualify for the final round, where a mini-league with only home fixtures will be held to determine the champion. The bottom two in each group will be relegated.

Defending champions Ahly have already qualified from Group A, so have Zamalek and Ismaily in Group B.

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