Zamalek: Close Season Manager's Report

Season 1 has come to an end and here in Cairo Zamalek are reflecting on a decent first season as part of the New World Order. Survival was key in a league where there were so many unknowns, so to finish 6th and well ahead of the relegation fight is surely something to celebrate, especially as it qualifies us for the SMFA Shield. We've managed to pull in crowds of over 30,000 for some games, and hope that the club's good standing, as well as the extra competition, will see even more fans packing into the Cairo International Stadium for the coming season. Our big signing, Mario Gomez, had a hand in over half of our league goals, so has certainly shown he was worth the money. Diego Souza also played a big part, showing form that has earned him a recall to the Brazil national team. Overall, the club appears to be in good health, and we need to be to remain competitive in what will be an even tougher second season.

Mamelodi Sundowns were the runaway winners of Division 1, so we need to strengthen and pull together to challenge them this term. Add to that the three promoted sides, all of whom are bigger on the world stage than us and have several household names on their books, and it's clear we can't afford to rest on our laurels.

The departure of several young players has allowed us to make moves in the transfer market that I believe will give us an edge. At the back, French International goalkeeper Benoît Costil (right) arrives from Bordeaux in place of the departing Beto, and his experience at the top level will bring great organisation to the defence.

Dutch legend Wesley Sneijder (left) has been brought in for his ability as a playmaker and also for the unrivalled knowledge of the game that comes from so many years of success. Bolstering the attack is Japanese star Shinji Kagawa (right), whose time at Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund make him a much sort after addition to any squad. We hope he will provide both goals and assists in abundance, and see our tally being even higher this time out.

If I had to pick our biggest fault last season, I'd have to say that our consistency wasn't great, but with these new signings we hope to rectify that and make a real push for the top 4. It won't be easy, but the players we have are proven winners, so don't write us off. Who knows, maybe we can even mount a title challenge and really put Egypt back on the footballing map?