After the club board gave consent to the transfer, Abou-Treika rejected a move to Hilal in the Saudi League, citing his desire to remain at the club and repay the fans’ faith in him.

“I was really hesitant in accepting Hilal’s offer,” Abou-Treika told Ahli TV.

“The fans’ warm welcoming upon our return to Cairo despite the dismal Club World Cup campaign had a great influenced in making me stay.”

The 30-year-old considered that turning down such a big offer wasn’t an easy decision to make.

“The deal was nearing 2 million Euros a year, and coming from a poor family, I have to admit it wasn’t easy to decline this opportunity.

“The mutual love between me and Ahli fans is incomparable to any amount of money.”

Quick bounce

Despite Ahli’s poor showing in the Club World Cup (CWC), Abou-Treika confirmed that it won’t take long before the club overcome this tough spell.

“All the players vowed to bounce back quickly from the World Cup disappointment.

“We told coach Manuel Jose that we went to Japan as African champions and returned as African champions.”

Harsh criticism

The former Tersana playmaker added that he is less than impressed with the way Egyptian media criticized Ahli for the club’s World Cup displays.

“After winning the CAF Champions League, everyone said we’re the greatest ever. Two CWC mediocre performances and some called for our heads.”

“Some media personnel are trying to bring us down, but we have to be aware of that and don’t give them the opportunity.”