John Edward Secures Defensive Signing for Zamalek Despite Registration Ban

John Edward, the sporting director of Zamalek Club, has completed a defensive signing to reinforce the club's squad for the upcoming season.

Head coach Moatamad Gamal requested additional defensive support due to a shortage of players in the central defense positions.

A source within Zamalek told "Iram News" that Moatamad Gamal secured the signature of Tunisian defender Saif Taqa, who currently plays for Wadi Degla.

John Edward obtained the player's signature in hopes of resolving the club's registration ban issue.

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) imposed sanctions on Zamalek related to 17 cases concerning payments owed to former players and coaches.

The source confirmed that negotiations with Wadi Degla will continue to finalize the player's transfer, especially since Saif Taqa has impressed Moatamad Gamal.

Saif Taqa, aged 35, previously played for Etoile Sportive du Sahel and Club Africain in the Tunisian league, as well as for Lens in France.

He moved to the Egyptian league in January 2021, joining Ceramica Cleopatra, then transferred to Al Ittihad Alexandria before signing with Wadi Degla in summer 2024.

Saif Taqa's contract with Wadi Degla is set to expire in June of this year.

Meanwhile, the Israeli army issued evacuation warnings to residents of the villages of Arnaya, Anqoun, and Kafr Fila in southern Lebanon.