Well I was shocked today to find out that the infamous Henri Michel has returned to coach Zamalek. Him again why?
Zamalek fired Swiss coach Michel Decastel after a string of bad results at the start of the Egyptian Premier League with 1 win in 3 league games. For starters I think it's weird firing a coach after just three games , but then again this is Egypt and this is Zamalek, the kings of instant gratification. Decastel had managed to finish the previous season on a high with some good performances, but the addition of several new players to the team this season means he should be given sufficient time for the new players to gel, not happening. Decastel was also blessed with the acquisition of two of Egyptian football's arch enemies and worst role models. Zaki and Mido. The duo are unprofessional and hate each others guts following incidents in CAN 2006 in Egypt and their bust up playing for Egypt against Zambia while in Wigan together last season. Their presence alone would disrupt any changing room atmosphere. One would think that Decastel would be given time given these circumstances, but the team the media in Egypt nominated to be an instant hit couldn't wait and Decastel was gone. In all fairness however this approach is not a trait portrayed only by Zamalek, it's like a pandemic in all Egyptian clubs. After only three weeks of the championship Ismaily, Masry, Ittihad along with Zamalek have all sacked their coaches, OH and Enppi too.
Why then would Zamalek opt for Michel? Well there is no doubt with regards to his ability. He is a charismatic coach with a well found knowledge of the beautiful game. He also is the only Zamalek coach to come close to beating a full strength Ahly side lead by the general, Manuel Jose, losing the Egyptian cup final 4-3 after extra time in arguably one of the most exciting Egyptian football encounters this decade. Michel comes with a catch though. Zamalek are rehiring him. This man was never sacked by Zamalek the first time mind you. This is a man who planned a pre-season camp with the club, instructed the administration on which players to buy, even released some of the clubs dedicated old guard and then out of the blue decided to quit the club mid camp and head over to coaching Morocco (who rumor has it was willing to pay more) leaving Zamalek scrambling for a last second replacement! These actions speak louder than any words possibly can about the "man" Zamalek chose for the job and regardless of his success, don't be surprised if he pulls something similar again. Zamalek deserve better....or maybe they don't:)
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