Lack of Trophies & Admin Experience: Three Red Flags as Zamalek Turn to Tony Pulis for Sporting Director Role

Africa 11 May 2025 at 17:11

Khaled Hegazy

News Editor

Egyptian giants Zamalek're preparing to welcome former Premier League manager Tony Pulis who's expected to be appointed as the club’s new sporting director.

Pulis 67, is scheduled to land in Cairo on Monday alongside his assistant. He'll kick off his duties Tuesday with meeting with the youth sector followed by watching Zamalek’s clash against Pyramids from the stands at Cairo International stadium.

The move was 1st revealed by former club president Mamdouh Abbas igniting wave of discussion about Pulis credentials & suitability for pivotal role at club seeking full football overhaul.

From Touchline to Office

While Pulis's widely respected in England for his managerial grit, , notably leading Stoke City to FA cup final & winning the 2014 PL Manager of the Year award, he's no background in front office or strategic role. His last coaching stint was with Sheffield Wednesday in 2020.

Three Shocking Red Flags Emerge

• No Administrative Experience ـــ Pulis's never worked as sporting director or in any non coaching role.
• No Trophies Won - Despite decades in football, he's never lifted title , concern for fans craving silverware.
• Years of Inactivity ـــ He’s been absent from football for nearly 4 year raising questions about his relevance & readiness.

Zamalek Betting on Structure & Discipline

Zamalek’s board sees Pulis renowned discipline & organizational approach as key to restructuring the club’s football operations.

His main responsibilities will include selecting the next 1st team coach improving the football environment and reshaping the club’s identity on and off the pitch.