Zamlaek star winger Mahmoud 'Shikabala' Abdel-Razik appeared to open a new chapter with his boyhood club Sunday, promising greater discipline with the team moving forward.
With mediation from the club's former coach Ahmed 'Mido' Hossam, the 30-year-old player vowed to renew his dedication to the club, under the guidance of coach Mohamed Helmy and chairman Mortada Mansour.
In a press conference held at the club, Abdel-Razik assured Mansour "I promise there will be no problem starting today. I promise you I will be a different person from now on."
For his part, Mansour said "I have challenged many by accepting Shikabala's return. His commitment would be a victory for me. He is a captain and the captain must be an example of discipline."
Mido, himself has had issues with Mansour which resulted at one point in the chairman cancelling the former Tottenham striker's membership at his boyhood club. Given Mido's mediation in this matter, it appears those issues have been resolved.
"I believe that Shikabala will show renewed commitment [to the club] and I trust his abilities to return to his best form," Mido said.
Zamalek are enjoying a festive atmosphere following their victory in Egypt's Super Cup--the first since 2003. The White Knights defeated bitter rivals Ahly in a penalty shootout on Friday.
Days before the Egyptian clasico last week, Mansour accused Abdel-Razik of faking an injury to be excused from the team's trainings. The player contested that he was, in fact, recovering from surgery.
"I had [to have] surgery. How could I intend to miss such a big event? I am a hardcore Zamalek fan -- not only a player -- and nobody can distort my loyalty," Abdel-Razik said.
The former international forward, who is one of the most popular players in the club's history, endured a miserable spell with Sporting in 2014 in Portugal, with whom he made a single appearance.
Abdel-Razik returned to Zamalek in last season's winter transfer window after terminating a loan with Ismaily by mutual consent. He has so far failed to regain his full form and re-establish himself with the White Knights.
As the Egyptian Premier League resumes this week, Zamalek are set to play El-Entag El-Harby on Wednesday with hopes to pass what has been a shaky frist round. The Cairo team are currently ranked third with 34 points, nine behind leaders Ahly who have played two games more they.
Ahly are set to face Ismaily on Wednesday as well.
