Al Ahly’s Ajayi Omitted from Squad Due to New Egyptian League Foreign Player Regulations

In a strategic response to the recently implemented foreign player regulations set by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), Al Ahly manager Hossam El Badry has excluded Junior Ajayi, the Jigger Ian forward, from the squad slated to face Petrojet in the upcoming Egyptian Premier League fixture on Friday. Ajayi, a prolific scorer with three goals in 11 league games this season, finds himself on the sidelines due to the new EFA rule, which permits only three non-Egyptian players in a matchday squad.

El Badry’s decision extends to other sidelined players, including Sherif Ekramy, Saleh Gomaa, Mo’men Zakaria, and Hesham Mohamed, who are nursing injuries. On the flip side, Mido Gaber and Rami Rabia, the latter having missed the last 10 games due to injury, have made it into the squad.

The Red Devils currently occupy the second position in the league standings, having garnered 30 points from 13 games. In contrast, Petrojet stands at the 11th spot with 17 points from 15 games. This match holds significance for Al Ahly as they strive to maintain their competitive edge and climb the league table.

The exclusion of Ajayi, a key player, underscores the complexities clubs navigate under the evolving football regulations. With the reshaped squad, Al Ahly aims to navigate the challenges presented by both the new foreign player rule and the competitive landscape of the Egyptian Premier League.