Happy birthday to Mohamed Youssef, the backbone of Al Ahly's defense and an African champion in coaching.
Mohamed Youssef, head of the youth sector at Al Ahly, celebrates his 56th birthday today, Friday, October 9. He was born on October 9, 1970, and has had a distinguished career in Egyptian football, both as a player for the Red Castle and the national team, and as a coach who led the team during important phases.
Ten Years in the Red Jersey and Many Achievements
Mohamed Youssef began his career with Al Ahly's first team in the 1989-1990 season under coach Mahmoud El-Saiss, and he remained with the team until the 1998-1999 season, before moving to play professionally in the Turkish league. He then returned to Enppi, where he continued his career until retiring from football in 2004.
During his time with Al Ahly, Youssef played in over 210 matches, scoring 5 goals despite being a defender. He succeeded in winning 6 Egyptian Premier League titles during the 1993-1994, 1994-1995, 1995-1996, 1996-1997, 1997-1998, and 1998-1999 seasons.
He also won 4 Egypt Cups, in addition to the African Cup Winners' Cup, the African Super Cup, and 4 Arab championships, making him one of the players who contributed to a significant phase in Al Ahly's history during the 1990s.
A Goal Against Zamalek and Another Against المقاولون.. Unforgettable Imprints
Despite focusing on defensive roles, Mohamed Youssef had the ability to advance and contribute offensively, leaving behind several memorable moments in the Al Ahly jersey.
His goal against Zamalek during the 1994 Cairo Derby, which ended with Al Ahly winning 3-0, is one of his most notable football moments, along with his stunning goal against المقاولون العرب with a powerful shot from outside the penalty area.
Mohamed Youssef with the National Team.. Africa Champion in 1998
Mohamed Youssef's journey with the national team extended as he participated with the Olympic team in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, and he was also part of the Egyptian team that won the Africa Cup of Nations in Burkina Faso in 1998.
Youssef also participated in the 1999 FIFA Confederations Cup held in Mexico, combining local achievements with international experiences during his playing career.
From Player to Coach.. Leading Al Ahly to African Glory
After retiring, Mohamed Youssef turned to coaching, continuing his journey with Al Ahly from a different position. He successfully led the first team to win the CAF Champions League title in 2013, a significant achievement in his coaching career.
He also temporarily took charge of Al Ahly on several occasions, playing an important role in managing the team during transitional periods, benefiting from his extensive experience within the club and his understanding of the nature of competition and the pressures surrounding the team.
From Sports Director to Head of the Youth Sector
Mohamed Youssef continued to work within the Al Ahly system, taking on the role of sports director after the departure of Swiss coach Marcel Koller, before the position was abolished and he was appointed head of the youth sector at the club.
Thus, the journey of one of Al Ahly's sons, whose career has been intertwined with the Red Castle as a player, coach, and administrator, continues, combining titles on the field with efforts to develop the new generations of the club's players.
