Imam Ashour apologizes to Al Ahly after the historic fine: Details of the crisis
The recent crisis that rocked Al Ahly SC has come to an end after midfielder Emam Ashour issued a formal apology to the club's management, coaching staff, and fans for failing to travel with the team to Tanzania. This comes as the Red Devils prepare for a crucial match against Young Africans in the CAF Champions League, a competition Al Ahly aims to defend its title and extend its record.
Details of the crisis and the standard penalty
Al Ahly Club took a strict disciplinary decision last Thursday, suspending the player for two weeks and fining him 1.5 million Egyptian pounds. This fine is the largest in the club's internal regulations ever imposed on a single player, reflecting the club's commitment to discipline and adherence to its principles, regardless of the player's star status or importance to the team. The penalty was imposed as a result of Ashour's failure to comply with the established protocol for traveling with the team, which the administration considered a breach of regulations requiring deterrence.
Imam Ashour clarifies his health condition
In his first response, Emam Ashour broke his silence via his official Instagram account, explaining that his absence was not due to rebellion but rather to compelling health reasons. Ashour wrote: "Unfortunately, much misinformation and inaccuracy is circulating about what happened. I accept any decision issued by Al Ahly, and I trust that the club officials understand my situation perfectly." The player indicated that he was suffering from a severe cold, high fever, and severe intestinal problems that required antibiotics, confirming that the infection had spread to his entire family.
Acknowledging procedural error
Ashour didn't just justify his absence with health reasons; he also bravely admitted to a procedural error he made "in good faith." He explained that he contacted the team doctor, Dr. Ahmed Gaballah, to inform him of his condition, but neglected to contact the team manager, Captain Walid Salah El-Din, directly to complete the official administrative procedures followed in cases of travel cancellation. Ashour said, "This procedure is insufficient in such matters, but I made a mistake in good faith.".
Context of the event and the importance of discipline at Al Ahly
This incident takes on particular significance within the context of Al Ahly's overall policy, a club historically known as the "Club of Principles." The club has always been renowned for prioritizing ethics and commitment over technical results, a policy that has contributed to its stability and dominance in African and Egyptian football for decades. The player's swift handling of the crisis and his admission of error demonstrate his understanding of the club's culture, which will help restore calm to the locker room before important continental competitions.
A message to the fans and a pledge for the future
Ashour concluded his message by emphasizing his pride in belonging to the biggest club in Africa, denying rumors that he had tried to pressure the club, saying, "No one can twist the club's arm, and I would never think that way." He apologized to his teammates and the coaching staff, wishing them success and a positive result in Tanzania that would please Al Ahly fans, stressing that his relationship with the fans is unbreakable and that being at Al Ahly compensates him for anything else.
