Foot Africa
·28 July 2025
Mohamed Salah Drops Bombshell on Mido, Hazem Imam Exit and Shikabala Retirement

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Yahoo sportsFoot Africa
·28 July 2025
Mohamed Salah claims iconic duo were forced out as Shikabala’s farewell sparks controversy
Mohamed Salah Drops Bombshell on Mido, Hazem Imam Exit and Shikabala Retirement
Zamalek Mohamed Salah's ignited fresh controversy with shocking revelation about the sudden departure of Mido & Hazem Emam from the club’s technical committee and also claimed Shikabala was pressured into retirement.
Speaking on television, Salah questioned the real reason behind the exit of the 2 club legends. Although the official version cited the appointment of John Edward as the new sporting director , Salah believes there was more beneath the surface.
"They were appointed to support Edward and provide insight , not to interfere. But who appointed them and who decided they should leave? I believe the board forced them out. They were likely seen as burden" he said.
Salah also addressed the emotional farewell of club captain Mahmoud Abdel Razek Shikabala who recently announced his retirement at 39.
"Shikabala was clearly pushed into retirement. There were earlier statements saying the club would renew his contract for year. Then, suddenly he’s in tears announcing it’s over" Salah revealed.
He added that board member even claimed Shikabala begged to stay for one more season something Salah dismissed as false , saying:
"Shikabala's like fish out of water if he’s not playing. He was hurt by these claims. No player should be forced to retire even if they want to play until 200"
Shikabala Zamalek’s most decorated player with 18 title , officially hung up his boots in emotional video that featured his sons hanging up his jersey & boots.
As tribute, Zamalek announced that the number 10 shirt long worn by Shikabala , will be retired next season.
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