Slovenian striker Nejc Gradisar, Al Ahly’s new winter signing, sat down for an exclusive interview with the club’s official website. He shared his thoughts on various topics, including the difference between football in Egypt and Europe, settling into life in Cairo, competition with fellow forward Wissam Abou Ali, his excitement for the FIFA Club World Cup, and his rising popularity since joining the Red Devils.
Gradisar arrived at Al Ahly during the last winter transfer window from Hungarian club Fehérvár, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract. Since his arrival, he has played three matches, scoring three goals and providing two assists.
According to Al Ahly's official website, here are Gradisar's statements:
A strong start with Al Ahly
Gradisar reflected on his start with Al Ahly, saying:
"I didn’t expect everything to happen this way. It has been a great start, and I hope to continue performing well and integrating with the team. That is very important for any player at the beginning. The way everyone welcomed me was amazing—it was really nice."
Speaking about his debut match, he added:
"During the Pyramids game, I was stunned when I saw the fans, so I recorded a video of their chants with my phone. It was truly incredible. I was very happy to get the chance to play and help the team secure a draw and earn a point, but we should have won that match. The players gave me some advice before I came on to help me adapt quickly to the game’s intensity, avoid feeling pressured by the crowd, and just enjoy the match."
Communication With teammates
Gradisar spoke about talking with some teammates, saying:
"I talk a lot with Mostafa Shobeir, Rami Rabia, Karim El Debis, and also with Afsha—he's a funny guy. Some players speak English, while others joke with me in Arabic. It’s great because they welcomed me warmly and helped me with everything I needed. Marcel Koller speaks to me in English and he is very kind, always giving me good advice."
A new culture and lifestyle
Discussing the culture and lifestyle in Egypt, he acknowledged:
"The culture here is different, the lifestyle is different—everything is new to me. I think I will need some time to fully adjust."
About choosing Al Ahly he said:
"Al Ahly is the biggest club in Africa, with amazing fans and a great history. That’s why I chose to join. I had many options in Europe, but when Al Ahly’s offer came, I saw the team’s situation and everything surrounding it, so I decided to come to Cairo and play for the Club of the Century."
He also addressed difference between European and Egyptian football:
"In Europe, football is more physical, with more duels. Here, the game is more open, relying heavily on movement and tactics. The playing style in Egypt suits me—you move here and there, covering the flanks as well. I think that’s a big difference."
Life in Cairo
Gradisar also spoke about his new life environment:
"I’m still staying in a hotel, but I have found a house and will be moving in next week. Cairo has 30 million people—it’s a massive city! I want to visit the tourist attractions, but I think I need more time. Maybe when my family comes, it will be the perfect opportunity to explore these places with them. My family told me the decision was mine because I would be living here for a while, but in the end, it was my choice."
Competition and chemistry
About his teammates Wessam Abou Ali and in-form Emam Ashour, he said:
"Wessam Abou Ali is currently injured, but I know he is a very good striker. We also have Emam Ashour in the team—he’s a fantastic player. We just need more time to develop chemistry, and then we will score plenty of goals. Emam is intelligent in his movements and has great vision. From the first training session, we understood each other well. I hope we continue playing this way, scoring goals, and winning points for the team. Competition is always a motivation for me. Every player plays to win, prove their abilities, and compete for trophies, so in every match, you have to aim for victory."
About the Club World Cup 2025 and facing Lionel Messi's team, Gradisar said:
"Playing against Inter Miami in the opening match alongside Lionel Messi is incredible. I have always dreamed of playing in matches like these, so I can’t wait. Every game is an opportunity to win, no matter the opponent. You just have to give everything you have and perform at your best. I believe we have a great chance to go far in the tournament. The same goes for the CAF Champions League—it’s an amazing competition. I’ve never played in tournaments like this before, so I will be very happy to take part."
An increase in popularity
Since joining Al Ahly, Gradisar has experienced a rise in his social media following:
"Yes, I can feel it. My phone hasn’t stopped buzzing with messages! I went from having 1,000 followers to 190,000—it’s crazy!"
Pre-Match rituals
When talking about his routine before matches, he shared:
"Before every game, I go to check out the pitch, listen to music, and clear my mind. I prepare myself to show why I am here."
A promise to Al Ahly fans
Gradisar concluded by talking about Al Ahly supporters and promised them, saying:
"I haven’t met many fans yet, but when I go back to my hotel, everyone wants to take a picture with me. Even when I go shopping, people ask for photos. The fans here are very kind—they don’t force you to take pictures; they ask politely. I promise them that I will give everything I have on the pitch, in training, and in every match. I will show my best to help the team win trophies."
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