CAIRO: Former Ahly coach Hossam Al-Badri reiterated that his relationship with Mohamed Abou-Trika is intact. Right before Al-Badri resigned as Ahly tactician, Egypt playmaker Abou-Trika, a cult figure at the Cairo club, released a controversial statement that suggested he didn't get along with his then boss. "Honestly speaking, (Egypt coach Hassan) Shehata and (former Ahly tactician Manuel) Jose understand me very well," the 32-year-old said on November 18. "They know how to make me play comfortably. I don't want my words to be misinterpreted, I'm grateful to Al-Badri." When asked whether what Abou-Trika said was the reason why he stepped down, Al-Badri said: "Some people might have misunderstood his statements because he's a very popular player. "My relationship with Abou-Trika is intact. I'm sure he just couldn't choose the right words, and that what he assured me." Abdul-Aziz Abdul-Shafi 'Zizo' succeeded Al-Badri at the Red Devils' helm last week.