Coach Pesiero’s Three-Month Tenure Ends with Egypt’s Zamalek
Unlike other soccer teams around the world with stunning players, Egypt’s Zamalek has come across a troubling situation and have unfortunately needed to lay off their coach. Done by mutual consent, Egypt’s Zamalek officially ended its contract with Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro on Wednesday. "An agreement has been reached between Zamalek and coach Jose Peseiro to mutually terminate the contract," the club said on Facebook. "We wish you the best in your future endeavours." This was done after just three short months in this position due to Peseiro’s poor results as a coach. The 65-year-old has been under pressure since the club’s elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup last month. The holders were eliminated 1-0 on aggregate by the South African club, Stellenbosch. Domestically, they are seven points adrift of surprise leaders Pyramids FC. In 17 matches under Peseiro’s tutelage, Zamalek won seven times, drew eight, and lost twice.
Former Porto and Sporting Lisbon coach Peseiro, 65, joined Zamalek on February 14th to become only the fifth coach to lead both Egyptian rivals, Zamalek and Al-Ahly. However, Zamalek, the defending champions, were eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup and the Egyptian League Cup under Peseiro, and a poor run in the league saw them slip to third place, seven points adrift of leaders Pyramids. Peseiro has previously coached the national teams of Nigeria, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela, as well as the Saudi club Al-Hilal and the United Arab Emirates' teams Al Wahda and Sharjah.
In light of his departure rumours, a report from Mwlana.com has noted that Peseiro has not received his salaries for March, April, and May. The coach is reportedly earning $70,000 (R1.2 million) per month. The report has indicated that the former Nigeria national team coach could demand his reportedly unpaid salary if the team opts to terminate his contract, as he is not willing to leave. With Peseiro appears poised to leave Zamalek, it seems the opportunity is open for Pitso Mosimane, who is rumoured to be one of the top candidates to take over the team's coaching role. Orlando Pirates' outgoing coach Jose Reveiro has also been cited as a possible successor for the well-traveled Peseiro.
