Shikabala – on a season-long loan from Zamalek – lost his place in Al-Wasl roster after reportedly falling out with the club for his failure to arrive on time from his mid-season vacation.

The 26-year-old has been loan listed by the Dubai club, while Zamalek remain reluctant to retrieve their former star by repaying part of his loan fee.

“Shikabala placed himself in this situation and so he has to solve his own problems with Al-Wasl,” Zamalek board member Medhat Bahgat said.

“To spare us any embarrassment, we decided not to interfere. We just hope he can come to a solution soon because he is a very decent talent.”

No Zaki return

The Zamalek official also ruled out the notion of re-signing former striker Amr Zaki, who has been transfer-listed by request by his Turkish club Elazigspor.

“Amr Zaki used to ask for a very large contract that we cannot afford right now,” Bahgat added.

“We have new regulations now to avoid any dramatic differences in wages.”