Egyptian football powerhouse Zamalek has reportedly threatened to withdraw from the upcoming CAF Champions League if the Confederation of African Football (CAF) moves forward with plans to expand the competition.
Reports indicate that the club is strongly against proposed changes that could increase the number of participating teams, particularly amid suggestions that revised qualification criteria may allow additional clubs, including arch-rivals Al Ahly, to enter the tournament.
Zamalek are said to believe that altering the current qualification system could compromise the sporting integrity of Africa’s premier club competition. The club reportedly maintains that qualification should remain strictly based on merit under the existing structure. 
The Cairo-based side has also expressed concerns that an expanded format could reduce the tournament’s competitiveness while creating opportunities that may be viewed as favorable to certain clubs. The issue comes against the backdrop of the historic rivalry between Zamalek and Al Ahly, which has often extended beyond domestic football to the continental stage.
CAF has not yet announced a final decision on the proposed changes. However, discussions surrounding a possible restructuring of the Champions League have intensified as the governing body explores ways to increase the competition’s commercial appeal, expand its audience, and boost its global profile.
Should Zamalek follow through on its reported threat, it could pose a significant challenge for CAF and spark further debate over the implementation of any reforms ahead of the new season.
