Michel for Zamalek?

Amer says on the Filbalad.com website today that Michel is on his way to become first team coach for another spell.

The Frenchman left Zamalek suddenly ahead of the 2007/2008 season to go to Morocco and then to the Brazilians which instigated a state of bitterness among supporters of the Cairo club towards him.

However, new chairman Amer does not hold a grudge against the 61-year-old, who, he says, is set to quit as Sundowns manager.

“Negotiation with Michel is nearing an end. He is ready to be back in charge of Zamalek,” Amer said at a press conference on Tuesday.

“He welcomed the job and is willing to apologise to Zamalek fans for his earlier departure.

“I cannot understand the media criticism regarding the return of Michel. He followed legal procedures before leaving in 2007, and he paid his release clause fee. So I don’t see a problem.”

A few days ago, Michel’s agent was quoted by South African media as saying that his client will snub Zamalek to stay with Sundowns.

However, the Brazilians’ recent defeat to Ajax Cape Town, Michel’s absence from the post-match conference and the interest from Zamalek raised doubts over his Sundowns future.

Amer revealed the reasons which forced the club to opt for Michel, despite talks with former coaches Nelo Vingada and Theo Bucker.

“The names of Vingada and Bucker were also mentioned, but Michel has great experience and we know he is capable of rebuilding a strong team here,” he added.

Zamalek have been underachieving throughout the past four years, with the exception of the bout where Michel was in charge.

The former France manager led the Whites to their only victory over arch rivals Al Ahly since 2004, winning 2-0 at Cairo Stadium in May 2007.