Ahmed Fathi was the star of the Egypt squad at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2003 and, when awarded his first senior cap at just 17, was the youngest ever player to become a full Egyptian international. Indeed, at one point Fathi was part of Egypt’s U-20, U-23 and senior squads at the same time.Versatile enough to play in almost any defensive or midfield position, Fathi was part of the Ismaily side that lost the 2003 CAF Champions League final against Enyimba. And in spite of two unsuccessful trials at English giants Arsenal, he did succeed in earning a switch to second-tier outfit Sheffield United, only to return to Egypt with Al Ahly in September 2007 after making just three senior appearances with the Blades. However, disaster struck not long after his arrival at the Cairo club, the player sustaining a serious injury in the team’s last game of the season and spending six months on the sidelines.

After playing a part in Egypt’s successes at the 2006 and 2008 African Cup of Nations victories, it was reported that Al Ahly rebuffed an approach for Fathi from Serie A outfit Lazio following the latter event in Ghana.

Video: Player in Action: