Back to Al Ahly after Europe: this player could really trouble Messi | OneFootball

Former Premier League, now home love: Mahmoud Hassan, better known as Trezeguet, is back at Al Ahly. Against Inter Miami & Co., he could become the decisive factor at the Club World Cup.

Al Ahly SC is not just any club. It's THE heavyweight of African football. With eleven CAF Champions League titles, 44 championships, and almost 40 cup wins, the Egyptian sports club's letterhead is well-filled. On the international stage, the club is a regular guest, the Club World Cup is now part of the mandatory program. In 2021, they finished third, and now they want more.

In the midst of this renewed attempt: Mahmoud Hassan, whom the football world has long known only by his nickname: Trezeguet. Although Al Ahly's returnee is not related to France's legend David Trezeguet, a youth coach once gave the now 30-year-old his nickname due to the optical and playful similarities. After an adventure in Europe that took him through Anderlecht, Kasımpaşa, Aston Villa, and Trabzonspor, he returned to where it all began at the beginning of 2024: to the bright red heart of Cairo.

One with international experience

Trezeguet once flashed his speed in the Premier League with Aston Villa, and in the Turkish Süper Lig, he was a crowd favorite. And in the Egyptian national team, he has been a regular for years. With 80 appearances and a second place at the Africa Cup of Nations, the most important tournament in Africa, under his belt.

Now, Al Ahly again. And here, Trezeguet not only fills the jersey with history but also a role with weight. His return was more than a romantic note; it was a statement. In the league, he has established himself as a top performer, bringing stability, tempo, and goal danger on the wing. Above all, against deep-seated opponents, he is the player who can tip a game with a single action. Not loud, not shrill, but always ready to call up the special.

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This could become a factor at the Club World Cup. When Al Ahly faces renowned teams like Porto or Inter Miami, they need players who don't blink in the big spotlight. Trezeguet knows the spotlight. He has played against Manchester City, Liverpool, and Galatasaray. Now, Lionel Messi is waiting.

On Sunday, the opening game is scheduled, Al Ahly against Inter Miami. Egypt's pride against America's star team. And Trezeguet? Against Luis Suarez and Messi, he could become the key figure.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.

📸 MONIRUL BHUIYAN - AFP or licensors