Aqtay Abdallah: Joining Al Ahly is a dream come true
New Al Ahly signing Aqtay Abdallah says joining the Egyptian giants is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream, describing the opportunity to wear the club's jersey as "an honour for any player."
Speaking to Al Ahly's official website and social media platforms, the winger reflected on his move to the African Club of the Century and outlined his ambitions ahead of the new season.
"I received a phone call from Essam Serag El-Din, the club's head of recruitment, informing me that Al Ahly wanted to sign me," Abdallah said. "I was overjoyed. I could hardly believe that my lifelong dream was beginning to come true, so I accepted immediately."
"Al Ahly has always been my dream club, especially because my entire family supports the club. I never considered discussing any other offers. My first and only choice was to join Al Ahly."
The 23-year-old said his move to the Red Eagles was the reward for years of hard work.
"I've worked extremely hard throughout my career, and I'm grateful to have joined Al Ahly. Wearing the shirt of the African Club of the Century is incredibly difficult because of the club's stature and its massive fan base. It's an honour for any player, but it also comes with great pressure and responsibility."
Abdallah acknowledged the expectations that come with representing Al Ahly, stressing that the club competes for every trophy.
"I understand the responsibility that comes with joining Al Ahly. The team always plays to win and competes for every title, so we all have to be fully prepared. We enter the new season with big ambitions and will give everything we have to meet the expectations of our supporters."
The winger added that his immediate focus is to earn the trust of head coach Hussien Ammouta through hard work in training.
"My goal is to perform at the highest technical and physical level so I can write a new chapter with Al Ahly. I'll work hard in training and hope to earn the coaching staff's confidence. I'm also confident my teammates will support me as we work together toward one goal: winning every trophy for our fans."
Abdallah revealed that he already has good relationships with several Al Ahly players after linking up with them during Egypt national team camps.
"They've already given me plenty of advice, and I'm confident they'll help me settle into the team. I hope we can enjoy a strong season worthy of Al Ahly's history and stature."
Concluding the interview, Abdallah praised the club's supporters and expressed his delight at being reunited with former Enppi teammate Ali Mahmoud.
"Al Ahly's fans are incredible and provide great motivation for the players. We'll give everything we have to win every competition. I'm also very happy that Ali Mahmoud has joined Al Ahly after the good season we had together at Enppi. I know the value of wearing the shirt of the African Club of the Century, and I'll fight to win trophies and make our fans happy."
