You see the word ‘pharaoh’ and you might think that I’m talking about Sam Morsy or Mido. But the real ones of the ‘Barclaysmen’ era know that Amr Zaki is the only true contender for that title.
Football fans, especially those with a penchant for collecting memorabilia, often reminisce about players who made a significant impact in a short time. One such player who left an indelible mark on the Premier League was Amr Zaki, the Egyptian striker who lit up the English top flight during his spell with Wigan Athletic in the 2008-2009 season.
The Rise of the Bulldozer
Nicknamed “The Bulldozer” for his powerful playing style, Amr Zaki arrived at the JJB Stadium (now known as the DW Stadium) on a one-year loan deal from Egyptian club Zamalek in July 2008.
The £1.5 million fee Wigan paid for the loan would soon prove to be a bargain, as Zaki took the Premier League by storm.Standing at 1.86 metres tall, Zaki possessed a formidable physical presence that made him a nightmare for defenders. His strength, combined with his natural goalscoring instinct, drew comparisons to Premier League legend Alan Shearer.
Wigan Athletic chairman Dave Whelan even went as far as to say, “When you look at this lad and his build… He has the same confidence when the ball, he knows where the goal is, he doesn’t need to look up, he has this instinct”.
A Dream Start
Zaki’s impact was immediate and impressive. He scored on his league debut against West Ham United on 16 August 2008, setting the tone for what would be a remarkable few months.
By the end of September, Zaki had netted five goals in six games, propelling him to the top of the Premier League goalscoring charts.
The Egyptian’s form continued to soar as he scored a brace against Liverpool, further cementing his status as one of the league’s most potent strikers. His ability to find the back of the net from the penalty spot was also noteworthy, with crucial goals against Portsmouth and Newcastle United1.
Stats That Speak Volumes
Zaki’s Premier League statistics are a testament to his impact during his time in England:
- Appearances: 35
- Goals: 10
- Assists: 12
At one point in the season, Zaki was the third-highest goalscorer in the Premier League, behind only Nicolas Anelka and Robinho1. For a player from a mid-table team like Wigan, this was an extraordinary achievement.
The Praise Rolls In
Zaki’s performances didn’t go unnoticed. Then-Wigan manager Steve Bruce was effusive in his praise, describing Zaki as “awesome” and stating, “If he keeps playing like that, he is going to have a real future in the Premier League”.
The striker’s physicality, pace, and goalscoring instinct made him a fan favourite at Wigan and a player admired across the league. His ability to score different types of goals – from powerful headers to clinical finishes – made him a versatile threat that defenders struggled to contain.
A Fleeting but Unforgettable Impact
While Zaki’s time in the Premier League was brief, his impact was significant. He finished the 2008-2009 season with 10 goals, a respectable tally for a player in his first (and only) Premier League campaign.
His performances in the first half of the season, in particular, were nothing short of sensational.
For collectors of football memorabilia, Zaki’s Wigan Athletic shirt from this season has become a prized possession. It represents a moment in time when an Egyptian striker took the Premier League by storm, outscoring some of the world’s best players and earning comparisons to Premier League legends.
Celebrating Zaki’s Legacy
Amr Zaki’s Premier League journey may have been short-lived, but it was undoubtedly memorable.
His explosive start to the 2008-2009 season, his powerful playing style, and his knack for scoring crucial goals make him a player worth celebrating. For football fans and memorabilia collectors alike, Zaki’s story is a reminder of the unpredictable and exciting nature of the beautiful game.
It’s tales like these that make collecting football memorabilia such a rewarding hobby, allowing us to hold onto tangible pieces of footballing history. If you’re passionate about football nostalgia and collecting, make sure to regularly check the Hobby FC archive.
Our website is dedicated to bringing you more stories like Zaki’s, celebrating the players who’ve left their mark on the game and providing insights for both new and experienced collectors.
Remember, in the world of football, it’s not always the longest careers that leave the most lasting impressions. Sometimes, it’s the players like Amr Zaki – those who burn brightly, if briefly – who capture our imaginations and earn a special place in our collections and our hearts.
What’s your favourite Amr Zaki moment from the Barclays era?