The Egypt team camped on Sunday ahead of the Arab contest next week, but the Ahli trio demanded a two-day rest after the 3-1 Champions League defeat to Etoile Sahel on Friday.

"The three players asked for a short break after the final, they said needed to rest physically and mentally," Egyptian FA chairman Samir Zaher said.

"They did not ask to skip the tournament, they just wanted a rest and the technical staff accepted their request."

Some reports claimed that a number of Ahli players preferred to be rested for the Arab Games, but Zaher denied such speculation.

Egypt will start their campaign by facing Palestine on Sunday.