Egyptian clubs face the axe from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) competitions in the new season, saying the Egyptian league does not meet professional standards.

In July 2011, the CAF warned the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) that the 2012/2013 season would be their last chance to go professional, but until now the league is not governed by a professional system.

"Applying the professional league became a must now for all African football associations and clubs," CAF's marketing and television director Amr Shaheen said in a statement on Wednesday.

"CAF have officially decided to omit any club that doesn't have a professional license from competing at the African championships finals in the new season.”

"We are not seeking a supervising role but we aim to help the clubs to improve themselves. We know well the obstacles they face, but at the same time we don't ask for an impossible thing," he added.

Titleholders Ahly are supposed to start the CAF Champions League from the round of 32, while Cairo rivals Zamalek will have an early start in the preliminary round against Niger's AS Douanes on 9 February.

Also, Egypt duo Ismaily and Wadi Degla will be playing at the Confederation Cup starting from the round of 32.

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