Ali Mahmoud thrilled to return home, targets new chapter with Al Ahly
New Al Ahly signing Ali Mahmoud has expressed his delight at rejoining the club, describing his return as a dream come true after coming through the club's youth academy.
Speaking to Al Ahly's official website and media platforms, Mahmoud reflected on his return, the negotiations that brought him back, and his ambitions for the years ahead.
"I'm extremely happy to be back at Al Ahly. This is my home, where I grew up and spent six full seasons before leaving in 2015. I'm not a stranger to this club in any way, and I'm delighted to have fulfilled a childhood dream," Mahmoud said.
The midfielder admitted his departure from the club was a difficult moment in his career but credited his family for helping him stay focused on one day returning.
"I was sad and disappointed when I left, but my family stood by me and always believed in me. They kept encouraging me to pursue my dream of coming back. When Dr. Essam Serag contacted me, I didn't hesitate for a second. My only thought was returning to Al Ahly."
Mahmoud believes he has returned as a more experienced player after several seasons away from the club and is determined to make the most of the opportunity.
"Things are different now. I've gained valuable experience during my years away from Al Ahly, and I have new ambitions. I want to write a new and successful chapter with the club, and I have a huge desire to achieve the goals I've had since I was part of the academy."
The 23-year-old stressed that no club compares to Al Ahly and acknowledged the challenge that comes with wearing the club's shirt.
"Al Ahly is incomparable. When I received the offer, nothing mattered except completing the move and returning home. I know how demanding it is to play here. Representing Al Ahly requires a strong personality capable of handling pressure both on and off the pitch, and that demands full preparation."
Mahmoud vowed to seize his second chance at the club through hard work and dedication.
"I won't let this opportunity slip away. I'll do everything I can through focus and hard work in training. As a youth player, I dreamed of reaching the first team, and now I'm facing a new challenge. I'll give everything I have to succeed."
Looking ahead, Mahmoud made it clear that his objectives align with the club's winning mentality. "My goal is to win every match and every trophy. We have no choice but to compete for everything.
The squad is full of experienced players, and we'll work together to achieve success and make our fans happy. Competition within the team benefits everyone, and I'll learn from my teammates because everyone at Al Ahly works toward the same goal."
He also highlighted the responsibility that comes with representing Africa's most decorated club.
"Playing for the Club of the Century is a huge responsibility. Every player has to stay fully focused in training and matches. The challenges are difficult, but Al Ahly has everything it takes to finish the season in the best possible way."
Mahmoud concluded by praising Al Ahly's supporters, describing them as the driving force behind the club's success.
"Al Ahly's fans are our greatest source of support and the key to our success. They accept nothing less than first place in every competition, and that's exactly what we'll fight to achieve. I grew up at this club and understand its identity, and I'm confident we can live up to the fans' expectations by winning every title."
