Former Al Ahly coach Mohamed Youssef has backed Pitso Mosimane and his side to go far in the CAF Champions League but insisted the coach must improve one aspect of his training.
The ‘Club of the Century’ has had to overcome quite a few injuries this campaign already, with key players such as Mohamed Hany and Hamdi Fathi being the latest names to be sidelined with long-term injuries.
Al Ahly is clearly feeling the impact of a packed fixture schedule as Mosimane tries to win trophies on multiple fronts once more.
Youssef, who guided Al Ahly to the 2013 CAF Champions League title, has now questioned the training methods of Mosimane and his technical team, which also includes former Mamelodi Sundowns fitness coach Kabelo Rangoaga.
“There are too many injuries. Mosimane must check the physical load he puts on the players because he’s the coach and he’s the one responsible,” he told OnTime Sports TV.
“If the same injury is repeated to more than one player, then the coach should immediately suspect something.
“Five Al Ahly players have suffered hamstring injuries, which is why Mosimane must review the physical training to see if he should reduce or increase it.”
The former coach, though, remained confident in the strength of Mosimane’s squad and explained why he is not scared of any opponents in the next round of the CAFCL.
“Al Ahly finishing second (in the group stage) doesn’t bother me, because in any case they will face strong teams,” he added.
“Al Ahly plays to win the tournament. Their goal is not just to reach the final, but to be crowned champions, and sooner or later they will face all the difficult teams.
“The most important thing is for the injured players to return, especially as they have a hectic schedule ahead of them.”
Al Ahly and Mosimane will face Al Nasri in the Egyptian Cup on Wednesday evening, while they will find out about their CAF Champions League quarter-final opponents on 30 April.
