He is arguably the most successful goalkeeper in Egyptian football history and probably one of the best ever to stand between the sticks in Africa and the Arab region. However, Essam Al-Hadari's shocking, yet unethical departure from Ahli to Sion could see his sparkling career come crumbling down in an instance, unless the 35-year-old comes out with a reasonable excuse. Al-Hadari has been the talk of the town in Egypt after his heroics in the 2006 African Cup of Nations victory on home soil, and he almost repeated the feat two years later in Ghana. Apart from winning the Goalkeeper of the Tournament award in both competitions, the 'rural' man won a host of trophies with Ahli, where he spent almost his entire professional career. So apparently, everything was going well for a footballer, who is on the verge of quitting the game after being granted a place in the nation's sports hall of fame. But the way by which Al-Hadari chose to break off Ahli's doors is nothing but a cheap shot, regardless of his motives. "I was shocked when I heard the news, he didn't consult me, he hasn't even informed me before leaving," said Essam's father Kamal Al-Hadari. Motive
A 35-year-old goalkeeper wouldn't be seeking a new challenge at this stage, especially with his current position as Egypt's number one. The motives forcing any footballer to want out of his club are well-known, but Hadari's act remains a mystery. A 35-year-old goalkeeper wouldn't be seeking a new challenge at this stage, especially with his current position as Egypt's number one. On the other hand, it was absurd to hear claims that he is aiming to 'secure his future financially'! "If someone like Al-Hadari is looking for financial security, then what shall a poor worker, who struggles to afford a piece of bread do," commented pundit Naguib Al-Mestikawi. Others claim that Al-Hadari's act could be a result of some 'ill-treatment' from Ahli coach Manuel Jose, who stripped the veteran keeper of the captain's armband three seasons ago. "The manager is behind Essam's departure," added the player's father. The act would have been justified if the move was to Arsenal, who were rumored to be interested, but it is bizarre to leave the club that made a name for you to go to a mediocre club like Sion, and without permission. But in fact my own opinion is that Al-Hadari has probably spent his childhood in Dumyat, supporting Sion and dreaming that one day he could play for the Swiss club!
