Ibrahim Said "close to signing"

[dantdot]

Egyptian, 52 caps for the NT. He's a centre back? Not sure.

http://msn.yallakora.com/english/news/Details.aspx?id=109409&Catid=1&region=

http://nilesports.com/news/?p=2109

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibrahim_Said

[Shaughno]

Nice if true!

[Shaughno]

“Ibrahim will fly to America next month as league starts in March, he tries to get visas to America and Canada” Haitham told Yallakora.com.
America goalkeepers’ manager Zaki Abdel Fataha had great role in the deal as he has good relations with Toronto coach Briki.
“I thank Zaki for his efforts in the deal, I hope everything move in the right way” he added.
It should be noticed that Said returned to Cairo after 6 month loan with Ahly Tripoli.


6 month loan deal then?

[T.Reis]

Hope he does the job.

[spark]

"The Florida-based club, founded in 2006, are the only Canadian team in the MLS"

HAHA he must have said "I WILL NOT PLAY IN COLD".

MO: "Don't worry mate, Toronto is in Florida!"

[dantdot]

"The Florida-based club, founded in 2006, are the only Canadian team in the MLS"

HAHA he must have said "I WILL NOT PLAY IN COLD".

MO: "Don't worry mate, Toronto is in Florida!"

lol, that made me laugh. Also, the only "un-American" team.

[Brooker]

he looks mean.

[Lucky Strike]

6 month loan deal then?

Rather, it says he was on loan in Tripoli for 6 months but has now returned to Egypt, presumably with his parent club.

[Shaughno]

I remember seeing him play for Egypt a little while back. Solid, no nonsense defender from what I remember.

[Lucky Strike]

P.S. The wiki at this time says he's already with TFC, done and dusted. LOL.

[Shaughno]

Rather, it says he was on loan in Tripoli for 6 months but has now returned to Egypt, presumably with his parent club.


Fair enough, that makes sense.

[Brooker]

"Personally I find him to be a great defender. But his attitude stopped him from any success. Everything bad that can exist in a footballer."

says somebody i was talking to that is quite familiar with him.

[ManUtd4ever]

52 Caps for a national team that has performed well in recent years...definitely worth a gamble at a reasonable price...

[McBrace]

"Personally I find him to be a great defender. But his attitude stopped him from any success. Everything bad that can exist in a footballer."

says somebody i was talking to that is quite familiar with him.

Well he's not getting any younger, could be his last kick at the can in pro football...

I remember hearing similar things about Amado!

Wait and see!

[craigtfc]

"America goalkeepers’ manager Zaki Abdel Fataha had great role in the deal as he has good relations with Toronto coach Briki."

Who's Briki??

[ArmenJBX]

There was a guy on this board who kept giving us updates on Egypt...I think it was King Tut...

Let's see what he has to say on this.

[ArmenJBX]

"America goalkeepers’ manager Zaki Abdel Fataha had great role in the deal as he has good relations with Toronto coach Briki."

Who's Briki??

Probably Preki

[T.Reis]

so he would take up Amado's old international spot right?

So how with no American spots left, how many International and Canadian spots do we have left now?

[dantdot]

He apparently signed for Everton, played 1 training match and then faked that he was going home to take care of his ill mother to try to play a in a local derby? lol WTF.

[King Tut]

I just talked to Ibrahim Said about 2 hours ago and he confirmed it as well.

[King Tut]

There was a guy on this board who kept giving us updates on Egypt...I think it was King Tut...

Let's see what he has to say on this.

Okay I know the article fucks up a few times on the year TFC was founded and the Florida-based shit and all, but this article could be right on.

The UMNT goalkeeping coach is an Egyptian guy called Zaki Abdel Fatah who worked with Preki at Chivas USA before, as well as LA Galaxy and some other teams. He's a veteran coach in MLS and has been working with Bob Bradley for years now. I've seen him mention on Egyptian TV that he came very close to securing a contract for Ahly's goalkeeper at Philly for this season, but the deal fell through at the end because of Amir Abdel Hamid himself.

I haven't read anywhere else about this, but this article is really a stunner since I talked to Ibrahim Saeid a few months ago about coming to TFC and he didn't like the idea one bit at the time.

This is one funny article to run into, but at the same time, the dude is a solid defender who can play CB, as well as DM. This article definitely caught me by surprise!!! :eek:

[ArmenJBX]

Now the question is, my friend...

Does he solve our center back problem? :D

[King Tut]

He's a solid defender that would do wonders in this league, but he is a nutcase and makes Joey Barton look like a saint. He also has the Abel Xavier syndrome, where he comes out with new hair color/style every game. With that said, he's always been impressive on the pitch and only reason he has not moved onto bigger and better things is because of his big mouth and his attitude. He burnt all his bridges in Egypt with Ahly, Zamalek and Ismaily. He has been trying to secure a contract for months with any of his former teams, but hasn't had any success.

[jloome]

Okay I know the article fucks up a few times on the year TFC was founded and the Florida-based shit and all, but this article could be right on.

The UMNT goalkeeping coach is an Egyptian guy called Zaki Abdel Fatah who worked with Preki at Chivas USA before, as well as LA Galaxy and some other teams. He's a veteran coach in MLS and has been working with Bob Bradley for years now. I've seen him mention on Egyptian TV that he came very close to securing a contract for Ahly's goalkeeper at Philly for this season, but the deal fell through at the end because of Amir Abdel Hamid himself.

I haven't read anywhere else about this, but this article is really a stunner since I talked to Ibrahim Saeid a few months ago about coming to TFC and he didn't like the idea one bit at the time.

This is one funny article to run into, but at the same time, the dude is a solid defender who can play CB, as well as DM. This article definitely caught me by surprise!!! :eek:

He's an excellent defender but, as with Zaki, has been labelled as being unprofessional and temperamental.

Interesting. He's definitely a backline leader of higher-than-MLS calibre. But he's also allegedly a headcase.

[King Tut]

Now the question is, my friend...

Does he solve our center back problem? :D

Yes..Watch his highlights with Egypt in 2006. He's man marked some of the best strikers in the world and was solid for Egypt in that very same campaign. He didn't take part much in 2008 in Ghana, but the few times he subbed in, he also did the job.

[ArmenJBX]

I just talked to Ibrahim Said about 2 hours ago and he confirmed it as well.

Really?? :O

How do you know the guy :D

[flatpicker]

hmmm... interesting thread.

I'm not familiar with this player, but I'm intrigued.
Good to know Mo & co. are working to fill in the holes that this club has.
I'm looking forward to seeing where this goes.

[King Tut]

He's an excellent defender but, as with Zaki, has been labelled as being unprofessional and temperamental.

Interesting. He's definitely a backline leader of higher-than-MLS calibre. But he's also allegedly a headcase.

Zaki is pretty tame behaviour-wise, compared to Hima. Hima is on a next level. He's been arrested before in Egypt for beating up a cop. He's lashed out at his wife on live TV. He's pissed off Everton fans when he showed up with his hair dyed bright red. He's called out several coaches in his days as a youth. He's been caught doing other "naughty" things.

But as I said, his performance on the pitch always speaks for itself and anyone that doesn't know Ibrahim Saeid too well, would never guess he has anger management problems, if they judged him by his play on the pitch.

Hima will be a great addition, as long as he stays focused and doesn't get distracted by Toronto's open life-style (bars, strip clubs, casinos, etc).

With that said, I think he is very eager to prove himself to his critics in Egypt, especially after failing to make the Pharaohs' squad for Angola 2010 and failing to secure a deal with Ahly or Zamalek. He is in denial right now and people in Egypt are against him moving to MLS because they see it as a weak league. So he has to prove himself in this "weak" league, or he'll receive more criticism, especially that he hails himself as one of the best defenders in Egypt and believes he's been robbed of a spot on the NT for Angola 2010.

In a nutshell,

Vidic (solid performance, brave, etc) + Joey Barton (attitude) + Abel Xavier (hairstyles) = Ibrahim Said :D

[King Tut]

Really?? :O

How do you know the guy :D

I met him a few times in Egypt through a friend who knows him really well.

[ArmenJBX]

Zaki is pretty tame behaviour-wise, compared to Hima. Hima is on a next level. He's been arrested before in Egypt for beating up a cop. He's lashed out at his wife on live TV. He's pissed off Everton fans when he showed up with his hair dyed bright red. He's called out several coaches in his days as a youth. He's been caught doing other "naughty" things.

But as I said, his performance on the pitch always speaks for itself and anyone that doesn't know Ibrahim Saeid too well, would never guess he has anger management problems, if they judged him by his play on the pitch.

Hima will be a great addition, as long as he stays focused and doesn't get distracted by Toronto's open life-style (bars, strip clubs, casinos, etc).

With that said, I think he is very eager to prove himself to his critics in Egypt, especially after failing to make the Pharaohs' squad for Angola 2010 and failing to secure a deal with Ahly or Zamalek. He is in denial right now and people in Egypt are against him moving to MLS because they see it as a weak league. So he has to prove himself in this "weak" league, or he'll receive more criticism, especially that he hails himself as one of the best defenders in Egypt and believes he's been robbed of a spot on the NT for Angola 2010.

A defender on a mission to prove a point...

He's.....He's using us! :(

lol, sounds like it's gunna be an interesting season, that's for sure.

[reggie]

what kinda money are we talking?

[King Tut]

A defender on a mission to prove a point...

He's.....He's using us! :(

lol, sounds like it's gunna be an interesting season, that's for sure.

I just hope he's one of a few signings. Ibrahim Saeid alone is not going to solve this team's problems.

[Beach_Red]

He's an excellent defender but, as with Zaki, has been labelled as being unprofessional and temperamental.

Interesting. He's definitely a backline leader of higher-than-MLS calibre. But he's also allegedly a headcase.


Well, let's hope he lasts longer than Tebily.

[King Tut]

Funny thing is I talked to him about a year ago and wanted to see what he would think of such a move and he wasn't too open towards a move to MLS.

I guess desperate times call for desperate measures. All I know is he's a player that gives it his all out there and regardless of his off-the-pitch (and sometimes on-the-pitch too) antics, he always puts on a solid performance.

[Pigfynn]

Should be an interesting summer at BMO if this guy is signed....if there is a summer at BMO this year of course.

[jloome]

Yeah, volatile and with something to prove!

Eek. That could be utterly fantastic or terribly wretched. Or both, probably.

[King Tut]

He apparently signed for Everton, played 1 training match and then faked that he was going home to take care of his ill mother to try to play a in a local derby? lol WTF.

He pissed off Everton by showing up with bright red hair...

He is one of the most troublesome footballers I've ever heard of, but also one of the most solid players (his play with Ahly, Zamalek, Ismaily and Egyptian NT are solid proof).

[Nuvinho]

^^ Guevara was labelled as a troublemaker, Serioux was considered reckless. This a new start for him, hopefully he does well here.

[TFC07]

This is a great pick up! Well done TFC! At least there is hope now for our backline. :scarf:

[King Tut]

^^ Guevara was labelled as a troublemaker, Serioux was considered reckless. This a new start for him, hopefully he does well here.

Oh yah I know. I'm one of the most optimistic people when it comes to this signing. I've been dreaming of Ibrahim Said joining TFC for the longest time. I always thought he'd be a realistic target as a solid defender playing for a solid NT and would come at a reasonable price.

I think he'll do good here. The news is already spreading like fire at Lawrence Avenue East. Lil' Egypt are all talking about this. :D

I wonder how long it'll be until Ibrahim Said becomes a regular at one of the coffee shops over there. haha

[TFCRegina]

We are the only Un-American team?

Well everybody from Craplumbus would agree. :P

[Super Cereal]

I haven't read anywhere else about this, but this article is really a stunner since I talked to Ibrahim Saeid a few months ago about coming to TFC and he didn't like the idea one bit at the time.
I hope he's not coming here solely as a last resort.

Aside from that though, this has me excited, sounds like a solid pick up.

[wzhxvy]

I love it...hope its true. Ok who is in for an Arabic chant ? :-)

[jabbronies]

"The Florida-based club, founded in 2006, are the only Canadian team in the MLS"

HAHA he must have said "I WILL NOT PLAY IN COLD".

MO: "Don't worry mate, Toronto is in Florida!"

:smilielol5:He totally did too.

[rocker]

I guess in the middle east it's good to be "un-American" right!?!?

[Yeoman]

is this the deal mojo pulls off?
did he have anything to do with it?
man, it just sounds like something he'd do.
'oh yeah, canada is a prime example that al gore uses for global warming'

[Detroit_TFC]

Sounds like he could run into trouble with MLS's knucklehead refs. Not that it bothers me, but I'd be concerned if he gets too frustrated, he might head for the exit.

[dantdot]

Paul's twitter:


Geoff at the League office just came through big time. about 2 hours ago (http://twitter.com/Paulbeirne/status/7961815562) from TwitterGadget (http://www.twittergadget.com/)

Connected? Who knows.

[TOBOR !]

So now all we have to do is come up with a half-decent song :

Walk like an Egyptian, or Funky King Tut ?

[Redpunkfiddle]

^^ Guevara was labelled as a troublemaker, Serioux was considered reckless. This a new start for him, hopefully he does well here.

Robert was labelled a moody sulker and...

yes- it can go either way.

[ensco]

I hope he's not coming here solely as a last resort.
.

Of course it's a last resort.

Have you had a look at what happened to all the other veteran internationals (Welsh, Robert, Ricketts, Vitti and Tebily) after they left TFC/MLS?

[TOBOR !]

No, wait... Mr. Cairo.

[kdzb]

If Mo sign him and he will be in the staring XI at the opener, I will great him with my Algerian Flag. :D
No Serious...
If he is a serious / disciplined player and give it his all in the pitch when he plays for my beloved TFC ,
then he is welcome in my Algerian home anytime he has the blues for Egypt.

[Oldtimer]

I was pretty sure we would get a veteran player from "Trader Mo," but this news is quite surprising. However, if Preki already knows the guy and thinks he can handle him, I'm down for having him on the squad.

It sounds like we could get some real quality playing there (if he doesn't punch out an MLS ref).

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

This sounds like a great move, let's hope Mo can find similar quality players at the winger and striker positions.

[twistedchinaman]

Sounds good -- I'm worried about the temperamental issues as well, but again both Guevara and Serioux were considered head cases and look where they are now...

He can be as wild as he likes in my eyes if he can keep the opposition far, far away from our goal.

[Hitcho]

Of course it's a last resort.

Have you had a look at what happened to all the other veteran internationals (Welsh, Robert, Ricketts, Vitti and Tebily) after they left TFC/MLS?

Er... Andy Welsh was neither a veteran nor an international when he came here mate! In fact, only Robert and Tebily fit that description from your list.

But anyway, MLS is a funny creature - you just never know how international players will do here. Some shine, some stink and some just walk out. All we can really do is hope that of we have signed this guy, he does the business. He could potentially become the next Dichio in the sense of being an all guts and commitment quality player. Or he could nose dive. :D

[kdzb]

I was pretty sure we would get a veteran player from "Trader Mo," but this news is quite surprising. However, if Preki already knows the guy and thinks he can handle him, I'm down for having him on the squad.

It sounds like we could get some real quality playing there (if he doesn't punch out an MLS ref).

Preki doesn't know the player. He was recommended by this guy who know Preki from his days as Bradley's assistant.
http://www.ennaharonline.com/en/sports/2635.html
I just hope he will pair up nicely with Serioux in central defence.

[Auzzy]

He pissed off Everton by showing up with bright red hair...

He is one of the most troublesome footballers I've ever heard of, but also one of the most solid players (his play with Ahly, Zamalek, Ismaily and Egyptian NT are solid proof).

Well, no complaints if he shows up for TFC with bright red hair! Piss yellow hair would however be another matter altogether...

Wow, we may have two seriouxly angry guys at central defense, the opposing forwards should be worried. I just hope it doesn't result in too many red cards or penalty kicks. (Remembering Adrian's hip check & a few other plays...)

[andyc]

So now all we have to do is come up with a half-decent song :

Walk like an Egyptian, or Funky King Tut ?

How about Night Boat to Cairo (Madness)

[TFCRegina]

His wikipedia page says he's one of ours. Done deal? :P

[JonO]

^^ Really? Since when is Wikipedia an official source of news?

[Auzzy]

I think the emphasis is on :P

[Lucky Strike]

"America goalkeepers’ manager Zaki Abdel Fataha had great role in the deal as he has good relations with Toronto coach Briki."

Who's Briki??

Lol, my guess is that it's Preki's name transliterated into Arabic and then back into the Roman alphabet.

[Lucky Strike]

So, possible huge headcase vs Preki? Surely he's got a plan to keep him in line.

[King Tut]

Ibrahim Saeid (#4) with Zamalek

Goal
JH-B6B7K4T4

Vs. Tarajji
mCrubW3W9D0

Goal
Y_YYXjudG9M

With Egypt against Ivory Coast in the African Nations Cup 2006
R617SPBQTrE

With Ismaily - Elbow on Abotrika (Al-Ahly)
8_2WhjY-Unc

[reggie]

this dude gots the skills...

[GuelphStorm2007]

Looks like this guy is pretty good, Lets hope he can bring some stabilty and organization to the CB position

[Keystone FC]

From the videos it seems that not only can he defend but also drive the play of the match upfield and not only get the ball to the forwards but in desperate times make the plays to get a goal.
If Wynne had more skill (A lot more skill) he would be a Said type of player. Defend...get the ball...drive it up field...lay one in the back of the net.
He does seem to be a bit problemsome off the field and bit on the field but I think he's just a competitor and when he sees TFC down a goal with 3 minutes left he'll say انه يمارس الجنس
and take the ball and score no matter whom it may piss off.
A problem maybe with the refs. If he flops alot then Said may be the one who geta carded but I have seen so many swan dives in MLS that it may not be an issue.
If it is true that we have Said then I say AWESOME!

[ensco]

Er... Andy Welsh was neither a veteran nor an international when he came here mate! In fact, only Robert and Tebily fit that description from your list.



"International" as defined by MLS. My point stands.

The one veteran interbational I can think of who washed out of MLS and has gone on to some success on a higher level is Carlos Ruiz at Puebla, but he's a special case, he was one of the three best players in MLS for years, and we'll see if he can keep it up.

For every Ruiz, there's 10 Kenny Deuchars and Collin Samuels.

[Darlofletch]

I like it.
Seems like he's a good player, and personally i quite enjoy a bit of, erm, shall we say "character".

get 'er done Mo.

[Alarius]

This is funny, I've had Ibrahim Said on my TFC roster on Football Manager for 2 years running. I believe it was King Tut that mentioned him back then.

[FluSH]

He's a solid defender that would do wonders in this league, but he is a nutcase and makes Joey Barton look like a saint. He also has the Abel Xavier syndrome, where he comes out with new hair color/style every game. With that said, he's always been impressive on the pitch and only reason he has not moved onto bigger and better things is because of his big mouth and his attitude. He burnt all his bridges in Egypt with Ahly, Zamalek and Ismaily. He has been trying to secure a contract for months with any of his former teams, but hasn't had any success.


So what you are saying is that he's going to fit into our locker room quite well! :D

[FluSH]

Should be an interesting summer at BMO if this guy is signed....if there is a summer at BMO this year of course.


Agreed... some of those vids are impressive... explosive play + explosive atitude = Good Times at BMO Field haha

[TorontoBlades]

This made my week....I've always rated this guy....

....and I now have my kit lined up for next year as we have the same last name and country!

[maninb]

Whoa....if this is true, put him and Nana together and we're f*cking SOLID!!! IMO we don't immediatley need another striker...let Preki work with Barrett, OBW, and Gerba for 3 months and see if there's improvement (it could hardly get worse)...if not then splurge/trade for another attacking option...

[Marco2K]

Gerba and Barret just wont work.
We need another stricker.

[wzhxvy]

انه يمارس الجنس

fyi, that means I am going to have sex

[jloome]

"International" as defined by MLS. My point stands.

The one veteran interbational I can think of who washed out of MLS and has gone on to some success on a higher level is Carlos Ruiz at Puebla, but he's a special case, he was one of the three best players in MLS for years, and we'll see if he can keep it up.

For every Ruiz, there's 10 Kenny Deuchars and Collin Samuels.

Welsh had started 14 games in the premiership and played in over 20 when he got here.

Not kidding.

He was always overhyped, long before we got him. Yeovil like him though.

[jloome]

From the videos it seems that not only can he defend but also drive the play of the match upfield and not only get the ball to the forwards but in desperate times make the plays to get a goal.
If Wynne had more skill (A lot more skill) he would be a Said type of player. Defend...get the ball...drive it up field...lay one in the back of the net.
He does seem to be a bit problemsome off the field and bit on the field but I think he's just a competitor and when he sees TFC down a goal with 3 minutes left he'll say انه يمارس الجنس
and take the ball and score no matter whom it may piss off.
A problem maybe with the refs. If he flops alot then Said may be the one who geta carded but I have seen so many swan dives in MLS that it may not be an issue.
If it is true that we have Said then I say AWESOME!

When he was a teenager he was touted as being either a defender or a defensive midfielder because his ball control and general technique is very good.

It's like Tut said, if he's on his game, he'll be one of the best defenders in the league. Think Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, only psychotic and with more technique.

[Nuvinho]

When he was a teenager he was touted as being either a defender or a defensive midfielder because his ball control and general technique is very good.

It's like Tut said, if he's on his game, he'll be one of the best defenders in the league. Think Jhon Kennedy Hurtado, only psychotic and with more technique.

Jhon Kennedy Hurtado is psychotic!!

[Hitcho]

Well, no complaints if he shows up for TFC with bright red hair! Piss yellow hair would however be another matter altogether...

Wow, we may have two seriouxly angry guys at central defense, the opposing forwards should be worried. I just hope it doesn't result in too many red cards or penalty kicks. (Remembering Adrian's hip check & a few other plays...)

Haha - piss yellow, love it!

I wouldn't be too sure of Nana being squeezed out of central defence though, even if we do sign Ibrahim. For ym money, he was our best and most consistent CB last season. I'd expect him to carry on there if Preki has been watching vids of TFC's matches last season (and I hope to god he has, and not just been sitting on his arse waiting for pre season to start - hehehe).

I'm not suggesting Serioux would be dropped by the way - he could play RB and allow us to trade Wynne for a good incoming player from another MLS team, for example. I always prefer full back staking throw ins than CBs, and that would suit Serioux's long throws. Plus he did well there for Dallas. He can also play DCM and is therefore cover for Robbo. In fact, i think this may even be his natural position.

[brad]

Haha - piss yellow, love it!

I wouldn't be too sure of Nana being squeezed out of central defence though, even if we do sign Ibrahim. For ym money, he was our best and most consistent CB last season. I'd expect him to carry on there if Preki has been watching vids of TFC's matches last season (and I hope to god he has, and not just been sitting on his arse waiting for pre season to start - hehehe).


Nana plus a solid, experienced CB is exactly the combo I want to see. Nana needs to be playing next to someone like Said at this stage - both to improve his game, and help him out during the games.

[King Tut]

So what you are saying is that he's going to fit into our locker room quite well! :D

Yep! :D


This made my week....I've always rated this guy....

....and I now have my kit lined up for next year as we have the same last name and country!

Masry? Same here, I'm ready to print my jersey once it's official on TFC's end.

Al-Ahly's Ex-goalkeeper and current Al Masry goalkeeper Amir Abdel Hameed almost signed for Philadelphia Union a few weeks ago. Zaki Abdel Fatah has been attempting to recruit Egyptian players to MLS for a long time.

[Auzzy]

^ To Brad & Hitcho, I certainly didn't mean to be pushing Nana at all with my comment. Just thinking of two guys with a bit of a reputation, Said & Serioux, next to each other in defense, would cause opposing forwards a bit more concern than has been the case up to now. (I can't imagine the likes of Brennan, Garcia, Harmse (?!?), Wynne, or even "Young Nana" getting anyone very worried.) Of course that's not the only criterium for being a good defender, and Serioux would still end up "next to" Said at RB :)

True, Nana has been great at CB, but he also looked great at RB the few times I saw him there. I'll trust Preki to make the best decision there.

If they can swing it under the salary cap, I think they should try to keep all of Said, Nana, Serioux, Gomez, & Wynne. (Or a significant replacement for Wynne, if Mo can work some trade magic with Wynne, although I doubt he would give up his own draft pick easily). Three of those guys (Nana, Serioux, Wynne) all had significant injuries in the past season, that's probably to be expected in defense, and Said is no spring chicken either. As Said is a bit of head case, maybe it's better if there's decent competition for his position, so he knows we're not totally dependent on him if Preki doesn't like his antics. We need some depth to be sure that we don't see types like Garcia or Harmse at CB ever again. Plus Serioux can also provide good cover at DM, his original position, if there are any injuries or absences there.

And we still have a hole at LB, because I don't think Brennan should be starting there. Not sure, I don't think any of the above 5 would be good at LB, or what do you think?

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

http://www.torontosun.com/sports/soccer/2010/01/20/12546516-qmi.html

Club's saying it's just a trial.

[Detroit_TFC]

That explains the Florida reference in the original article. Winter camp in Bradenton.

[jloome]

Eek, it's the annual "use TFC as contract leverage" training camp ploy.

We're training in Florida already?

[jloome]

Jhon Kennedy Hurtado is psychotic!!

I'd say more "aggressive and reckless", like Sanyang but not as "aggressive and reckless" :D

By all accounts, however, said is Cuh-RAAAAAZY.

[romburgundy]

"Personally I find him to be a great defender. But his attitude stopped him from any success. Everything bad that can exist in a footballer."

says somebody i was talking to that is quite familiar with him.

Very True he is effective on the pitch and full of drama off the pitch.
His nick name in Egypt is "Hema Mashakel"

Translated "Hema" is a short form for Ibrahim and "Mashakel" means Problems.

But man he will get the Job done for 90 minutes no problem. Getting along with Management and the Dressing room is a whole other thing.

[ag futbol]

These videos show some great past attributes but, I want to know more about how he’s played lately.

The worst MLS DP in history (ok 2nd to Claudio Reyna) has some of the best youtube highlights you’ll ever see.

[romburgundy]

These videos show some great past attributes but, I want to know more about how he’s played lately.

The worst MLS DP in history (ok 2nd to Claudio Reyna) has some of the best youtube highlights you’ll ever see.

Oh he's good no concern about that its will he fit in? that is the real concern!

[Strikers]

Looks like this guy can play. This would be a great pick up if he can continue to play
at that level.

[dannyd]

I would rather have Marshall back. I don't understand this team, we get rid of one of the best central defenders in the league and a season later, try to replace him with a headcase who has similar talent. Why Mo still has a job is beyond me.

[Hitcho]

Auzzy - understand your point. Funny thing though, I've never understood why people assume forwards will be "scared" of players with a reputation. I've never once seen it, even at schoolboy level. On the other hand, it does make the CB a target to get riled up and carded, and an early yellow can hamper your game at CB if you rely on playing tough (unless you don't care about being sent off).

So for me, I'd rather have two level headed, steady, reliable CBs than two "monsters" with reputations who can be taregtted by savvy forwards.

Just my 2c though.

[King Tut]

I would rather have Marshall back. I don't understand this team, we get rid of one of the best central defenders in the league and a season later, try to replace him with a headcase who has similar talent. Why Mo still has a job is beyond me.

Ibrahim Said > Tyrone Marshall...

[reggie]

marshall...huh.one of the best central defenders in the league..what league are you talking about?

[romburgundy]

Ibrahim Said > Tyrone Marshall...

Ibrahim is very similar to Marshall. I have to say I was very upset the day we lost Marshall and would love to have him back along with Said we would have two solid CB.

Not sure if you got a chance to see these clips but he is one fast Mo Fo. Put him along side another good but slower CB like Ty or even Serioux he could cover them real well in case of slip ups of counter attacks. And if we're keeping Marvell at RB then so be it but I think If we're rebuilding. Lets blow it up and start over.

Cant wait for this season.

[jloome]

marshall...huh.one of the best central defenders in the league..what league are you talking about?

Marshall was an MLS all-star before we get him, and generally considered one of the best centre halfs in the league. He's lost a step and his age (and perhaps personal preference) are why he left. But he was far and away our best centre half (except bombscare, but he had a Cafe au lait and split before it cooled.)

[BuSaPuNk]

marshall...huh.one of the best central defenders in the league..what league are you talking about?

The league that TFC play in. I know I wasn't dreaming last home opener when Marshall practially shut down the TFC offense.

Said looks like a good pick up though. We need those type of players that also can lead by example. With Said, Serioux, Nana, and Gomez that would be a very solid backline. Plus you can trade Wynne for a forward or keep him and use him as another winger if you can't get enough value out of a trade for him.

[King Tut]

Ibrahim is very similar to Marshall. I have to say I was very upset the day we lost Marshall and would love to have him back along with Said we would have two solid CB.

Not sure if you got a chance to see these clips but he is one fast Mo Fo. Put him along side another good but slower CB like Ty or even Serioux he could cover them real well in case of slip ups of counter attacks. And if we're keeping Marvell at RB then so be it but I think If we're rebuilding. Lets blow it up and start over.

Cant wait for this season.

Same here. I was very upset about losing Marshall myself. But Ibrahim Saied is still in a higher class than Tyrone Marshall if we're comparing the two. If I have to choose between the two, I'm definitely picking Hima.

[T.Reis]

Getting a little off topic know but I'm glad to see Tyrone getting some love here. He looked great last year in Seattle when he had someone beside him who knew what they were doing.

[Auzzy]

Auzzy - understand your point. Funny thing though, I've never understood why people assume forwards will be "scared" of players with a reputation. I've never once seen it, even at schoolboy level. On the other hand, it does make the CB a target to get riled up and carded, and an early yellow can hamper your game at CB if you rely on playing tough (unless you don't care about being sent off).

So for me, I'd rather have two level headed, steady, reliable CBs than two "monsters" with reputations who can be taregtted by savvy forwards.

Just my 2c though.

Yup, you're right, that's worth $2 at least. Just something for guys like me to get excited about. "Hey, we got this tough guy, you better watch out." However, I think there's something to be said for having a strong (but level-headed) presence in your own box. Someone like Dichio up front, who is very hard to push off the ball, who challenges on every header, who gets under the other team's skin with smart physical play w/o getting lots of fouls called. Serioux is like that when he's healthy, although sometimes too rash. Nana is still very young, but is getting closer to that physical presence (and already has better speed & most technical skills than Serioux). Said certainly has it. Garcia, Harmse, etc don't.

BTW I just chatted with some more Egyptian friends. They felt that Said doesn't get many cards or fouls called on him. He's actually pretty good at drawing fouls as well. His problems lie elsewhere. It would be interesting to see how he deals with some of the MLS refs, with the crappy weather, with the heavy media presence in Toronto all over the place incl. locker room, with Preki benching him if he doesn't like something he did etc. Hopefully the league disciplinarians don't speak Arabic too well!

Anyway, it's just a trial, who knows if this works out & for how long.

[maninb]

Yup, you're right, that's worth $2 at least. Just something for guys like me to get excited about. "Hey, we got this tough guy, you better watch out." However, I think there's something to be said for having a strong (but level-headed) presence in your own box. Someone like Dichio up front, who is very hard to push off the ball, who challenges on every header, who gets under the other team's skin with smart physical play w/o getting lots of fouls called. Serioux is like that when he's healthy, although sometimes too rash. Nana is still very young, but is getting closer to that physical presence (and already has better speed & most technical skills than Serioux). Said certainly has it. Garcia, Harmse, etc don't.

BTW I just chatted with some more Egyptian friends. They felt that Said doesn't get many cards or fouls called on him. He's actually pretty good at drawing fouls as well. His problems lie elsewhere. It would be interesting to see how he deals with some of the MLS refs, with the crappy weather, with the heavy media presence in Toronto all over the place incl. locker room, with Preki benching him if he doesn't like something he did etc. Hopefully the league disciplinarians don't speak Arabic too well!

Anyway, it's just a trial, who knows if this works out & for how long.

Well said....This guy certainly has some class..can he adjust to the league, and the poor quality of the refs...time will tell...but it's still early days.

[Kilgore Trout]

From the videos it seems that not only can he defend but also drive the play of the match upfield and not only get the ball to the forwards but in desperate times make the plays to get a goal.
If Wynne had more skill (A lot more skill) he would be a Said type of player. Defend...get the ball...drive it up field...lay one in the back of the net.
He does seem to be a bit problemsome off the field and bit on the field but I think he's just a competitor and when he sees TFC down a goal with 3 minutes left he'll say انه يمارس الجنس
and take the ball and score no matter whom it may piss off.
A problem maybe with the refs. If he flops alot then Said may be the one who geta carded but I have seen so many swan dives in MLS that it may not be an issue.
If it is true that we have Said then I say AWESOME!

when he sees TFC down a goal with 3 minutes left he'll say 'that he practises sex' and take the ball and score no matter whom it may piss off? Really?

[King Tut]

Ibrahim Saeid arrived in USA and will be joining TFC in Charleston on Friday for their 3 matches, and will put pen to paper after, if all goes well. I guess he didn't give us the birdie after all.

He had problems obtaining a visa to USA and he just got his papers sorted out. USMNT assistant coach and goalkeeping Zaki Abdel Fattah (Egyptian who worked with Preki at Chivas) has saved the move from collapsing, after Ibrahim Said faced problems obtaining his papers. Zaki Abdel Fattah "convinced" Preki to be patient and the papers eventually came through this week. Ibrahim Said arrived in NYC yesterday at 3:30 pm EST and will link up with TFC in Charleston and is expected to feature in all three matches.

TFC TV mentioned that Toronto FC still has some new trialists for Charleston. He should be one of those.

I just heard his phone call too on a show. He called from the airport, an hour before take off.

That's the phone call. It's in Arabic. At 1:55 he mentions "TORONTO FC" and said he's been training solo and staying in shape and is ready to prove himself with TFC and do good things. He also says that financial terms aren't on his mind and he just wants to take this chance to do well and he's fully concentrating on succeeding with Toronto. He states that he's looking forward to adapting to life in Toronto and can't wait to settle down in Toronto. He also mentions that he has everything (belongings, etc) with him and he's not returning to Egypt after Charleston and that he's finalized his shit in Egypt already. His family is moving to Toronto within a month or two, after he finds a house.

QN4z90QiBxw

[Ossington Mental Youth]

amazing much appreciated

[London]

some good news.

[TFC Tifoso]

good news finally.......of course, this could all go wrong when Said has his face to face (ie. ass) meeting with Mo, so I won't get too excited yet....

[Nuvinho]

awesome....a bonafide CB!!

[Ossington Mental Youth]

i hope the dude is the real deal, fingers crossed

[daner90]

So Wynne-Attakora-Said-Gomez in the back?

[rowan]

I don't understand arabic, but I listened to the entire interview just to hear "Toronto FC"...

[Nodoubtguy]

wow, great way to start the day

[TFC_Junky]

Finally some good news coming out of the TFC camp!

[ManUtd4ever]

http://iggydonnelly.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/the-simpsons-mr-burns-excel1.jpg

[JDG]

That's Great news!

[Shaughno]

Ibrahim Saeid arrived in USA and will be joining TFC in Charleston on Friday for their 3 matches, and will put pen to paper after, if all goes well. I guess he didn't give us the birdie after all.

He had problems obtaining a visa to USA and he just got his papers sorted out. USMNT assistant coach and goalkeeping Zaki Abdel Fattah (Egyptian who worked with Preki at Chivas) has saved the move from collapsing, after Ibrahim Said faced problems obtaining his papers. Zaki Abdel Fattah "convinced" Preki to be patient and the papers eventually came through this week. Ibrahim Said arrived in NYC yesterday at 3:30 pm EST and will link up with TFC in Charleston and is expected to feature in all three matches.

TFC TV mentioned that Toronto FC still has some new trialists for Charleston. He should be one of those.

I just heard his phone call too on a show. He called from the airport, an hour before take off.

That's the phone call. It's in Arabic. At 1:55 he mentions "TORONTO FC" and said he's been training solo and staying in shape and is ready to prove himself with TFC and do good things. He also says that financial terms aren't on his mind and he just wants to take this chance to do well and he's fully concentrating on succeeding with Toronto. He states that he's looking forward to adapting to life in Toronto and can't wait to settle down in Toronto. He also mentions that he has everything (belongings, etc) with him and he's not returning to Egypt after Charleston and that he's finalized his shit in Egypt already. His family is moving to Toronto within a month or two, after he finds a house.

QN4z90QiBxw

Yes Tut!

You think he'd be down for a celebratory :stogey: when he gets into Toronto? :D :lol:

[Nuvinho]

So Wynne-Attakora-Said-Gomez in the back?

Question: since I don't know much about Cann, is he good enough to start for us?

If so, maybe Marvell becomes a trading chip.

Nana---Cann---Said----Brennan (for this year)

[Pigfynn]

I don't understand arabic, but I listened to the entire interview just to hear "Toronto FC"...


:lol::lol::lol:

[ManUtd4ever]

Ibrahim Saeid arrived in USA and will be joining TFC in Charleston on Friday for their 3 matches, and will put pen to paper after, if all goes well. I guess he didn't give us the birdie after all.

He had problems obtaining a visa to USA and he just got his papers sorted out. USMNT assistant coach and goalkeeping Zaki Abdel Fattah (Egyptian who worked with Preki at Chivas) has saved the move from collapsing, after Ibrahim Said faced problems obtaining his papers. Zaki Abdel Fattah "convinced" Preki to be patient and the papers eventually came through this week. Ibrahim Said arrived in NYC yesterday at 3:30 pm EST and will link up with TFC in Charleston and is expected to feature in all three matches.

TFC TV mentioned that Toronto FC still has some new trialists for Charleston. He should be one of those.

I just heard his phone call too on a show. He called from the airport, an hour before take off.

That's the phone call. It's in Arabic. At 1:55 he mentions "TORONTO FC" and said he's been training solo and staying in shape and is ready to prove himself with TFC and do good things. He also says that financial terms aren't on his mind and he just wants to take this chance to do well and he's fully concentrating on succeeding with Toronto. He states that he's looking forward to adapting to life in Toronto and can't wait to settle down in Toronto. He also mentions that he has everything (belongings, etc) with him and he's not returning to Egypt after Charleston and that he's finalized his shit in Egypt already. His family is moving to Toronto within a month or two, after he finds a house.

QN4z90QiBxw

He looks exactly like "Said" from the TV series "Lost"...

http://amysrobot.com/files/sayid.JPG

[106-12]

I just listened to the interview in Arabic. He sounds very excited to be coming to Toronto. Says he needs to prove himself and he doesn't want to make the same mistakes he made when he went to England. I think he will be a good player for us.

[Pigfynn]

^^Wow! someone who's excited to come and wear the shirt..I like him already.

[Shaughno]

He's definitely a good player... if he can keep his shit together, he'll boss our backline no doubt about it.

[jabbronies]

He's definitely a good player... if he can keep his shit together, he'll boss our backline no doubt about it.

This is something we have never had. Even when we had Marshell in the back, he was tough, but he wasn't someone who really controlled what was happening in the back.

[Shaughno]

And something we've been asking for since Day 1.

[Detroit_TFC]

Best news so far this preseason, I was worried he had reconsidered coming to TFC.

[Stencils]

Very interested to see how this works out! This is definitely something to celebrate.

[sully]

This is something we have never had. Even when we had Marshell in the back, he was tough, but he wasn't someone who really controlled what was happening in the back.
Can he speak English?

[Shaughno]

Can he speak English?

Well he was at Everton for a short time, so I'm assuming he can at least understand it...

[Oldtimer]

He won't need to know English. Preki will be yelling at him in Serbian...

[brad]

This signing could be big for us. Not only on the defensive front, but transitions out of defense to attack (IE Said to JDG). This could be the first step to actually launching a counter attack....

[Shaughno]

This signing could be big for us. Not only on the defensive front, but transitions out of defense to attack (IE Said to JDG). This could be the first step to actually launching a counter attack....


I remember years 1&2 I (and many others) preached about not having the midfield to work the ball up to our strikers. Last year we had the midfield, but nobody to really work the ball up the field from the back. Hopefully this is the signing we've needed. Commanding, talented, experienced CB.

[maninb]

Yah baby!!!! Perhaps an answer to our #1 priority!!!!

[tfc88]

He won't need to know English. Preki will be yelling at him in Serbian...

"Jebem ti Mater, pitchku!"

[brad]

I remember years 1&2 I (and many others) preached about not having the midfield to work the ball up to our strikers. Last year we had the midfield, but nobody to really work the ball up the field from the back. Hopefully this is the signing we've needed. Commanding, talented, experienced CB.

I hope so too.

This is one (of the many) reasons we conceded so many late goals as well. We couldn't retain possession on the transition from defense to offense.

[Brooker]

thank god!

[Shaughno]

No thank Preki... and his contacts ;)

[GuelphStorm2007]

Finally some good news. Hopefully this guy will work out,

[jloome]

I believe I'm owed a karmic beer for predicting that, after the Robbo debacle, there'd be a signing today or tomorrow (or both).

THey always soften the blow that way. Old PR trick.

Huge though. Guy's a total nutcase, but a helluva player.

[jloome]

No thank Preki... and his contacts ;)

Stunning that Mo couldn't pull this one of, eh:rolleyes:

[flatpicker]

It's so nice to get a little good news in TFC land.

[DangerRed]

I want to be positive here, but... contract or it didn't happen.

[Brooker]

No thank Preki... and his contacts ;)


THANK RADOSAVLJEVIC!

[Shaughno]

I believe I'm owed a karmic beer for predicting that, after the Robbo debacle, there'd be a signing today or tomorrow (or both).

THey always soften the blow that way. Old PR trick.

Huge though. Guy's a total nutcase, but a helluva player.

LOL I'd give you that karmic beer if it was official... until then, you're only half right :lol:

[Pachuco]

We are probably still a couple of weeks away from seeing this guy sign (IF he does sign). He's probably going to trial through Charleston tourny, and then negotations begin, and then maybe, just maybe, we'll get pen on paper, if he's good enough and if Mo doesn't fuck it up. Shall I remind everyone about Kiki? :)

[Shaughno]

We are probably still a couple of weeks away from seeing this guy sign (IF he does sign). He's probably going to trial through Charleston tourny, and then negotations begin, and then maybe, just maybe, we'll get pen on paper, if he's good enough and if Mo doesn't fuck it up. Shall I remind everyone about Kiki? :)


Yeah, at least Said has said that he doesn't care about the money, he just wants to impress. Which is miles better than what Kiki was after, which was plain ol' greenbacks and couldn't give a shit who he was playing for.

[Pachuco]

Yeah, at least Said has said that he doesn't care about the money, he just wants to impress. Which is miles better than what Kiki was after, which was plain ol' greenbacks and couldn't give a shit who he was playing for.

This is true. Money isn't always the sticky point in negotiations though so who knows. Just saying, this guy is further away from signing then some of the other trialists that apparantly have stuck around from the Disney tourney.

[Shaughno]

Yes and no... technically he was supposed to be here earlier, but Preki was convinced to wait for his work permit to go through. From the sounds of his brief statements and articles it's not so much a trial but rather a near signing.

[Detroit_TFC]

Hope the strike talk doesn't freak him out. "Welcome to MLS - oh by the way we're going on strike and you're not going to get paid."

Having said that, since it took a lot of effort to get US visa he probably wouldn't leave now.

[Beach_Red]

This is true. Money isn't always the sticky point in negotiations though so who knows. Just saying, this guy is further away from signing then some of the other trialists that apparantly have stuck around from the Disney tourney.


It's true, it's not always money - plenty of people have looked at MLS and not liked the fact the league owns the contracts, not the team. A lot of things can still go wrong, but we might as well be optimistic.

[WHITEY]

LOL I wonder how long into the season it will be that the first thread goes up titled; "Said is a head case, get rid of him"?

[mastermixer]

Great news for TFC.
I just wish this strike stuff was behind us so I could get into full season mode...

[King Tut]

I don't understand arabic, but I listened to the entire interview just to hear "Toronto FC"...

Some here do. That's why I posted it.


Yes Tut!

You think he'd be down for a celebratory :stogey: when he gets into Toronto? :D :lol:

Probably down for a celebratory shisha. I just hope the deal goes through without any more complications. :D

If you asked me this question a few years ago, I'd say yes. But now the dude wants to get on with his career and prove many critics wrong, so the last thing he wants to do is smoke one with the fans. :D

[rocker]

it'll be great news when he signs and performs well. in the mean time, he's still on trial and the league doesn't have a CBA... we shall see....

[T_Mizz]

It sounds to me this is just about a done deal, he sounds like he's putting all his eggs into the Toronto basket with the whole "not going back to Egypt" thing and moving his family here already. Good stuff.

[King Tut]

Also a lot of people (fans/media) in Egypt have been quick to predict that he'll bring his trouble along to Toronto FC and it's only a matter of time before he ditches Toronto FC, so he's very eager to shut these people up and prove them wrong. He's looking at this as a challenge to improve his bad-boy image that's haunted him for years and get back into the Egyptian National Team. So in a nutshell, Ibrahim Said is in no shape to fuck around or stir the pot, if he really means it when he says he wants to return to the Egyptian National Team through success with TFC.

[Inklink]

If he can't speak English, Nana and the rest of the back line better learn some Arabic. :)

[King Tut]

If he can't speak English, Nana and the rest of the back line better learn some Arabic. :)
He knows enough English to get by. Language barrier wont be an issue. The biggest shock any Middle Eastern person gets here is probably the weather. But like any MLS player who hates Canadian winters, he has an option to travel back home during the off-season.

[King Tut]

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs489.ash1/26753_1324862996250_1071141089_960452_218017_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs489.ash1/26753_1324862236231_1071141089_960451_6075635_n.jp g

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs509.snc3/26753_1324861116203_1071141089_960449_5701938_n.jp g

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs489.snc3/26753_1324849595915_1071141089_960438_1958331_n.jp g

[reggie]

who took the pics,and what airport is it?

[King Tut]

It's Ibrahim Said and whoever's accompanying him at the airport. The pictures are from Ibrahim Said himself. He flew into NYC yesterday. I believe it's John F. Kennedy Airport, terminal 4 on an Egypt Air flight that arrived at 3:15 pm EST from Cairo.

[jloome]

The shaved head looks menacing and he can be quite the nasty fucker on the pitch, which is ideal for a backline leader. Tut, your job for this season as a devoted TFC fan should be to give up your homelife and shadow Said everywhere, just in case.:D

[reggie]

lets hope we can sign him...how much money are we looking at??

[Damien]

King Tut's a well-connected Egyptian baller

[Chevy]

lets hope we can sign him...how much money are we looking at??

I'm thinking $250, $275k??

[TFCUNITED]

Good to hear some positive news during the preseason.

[King Tut]

The shaved head looks menacing and he can be quite the nasty fucker on the pitch, which is ideal for a backline leader. Tut, your job for this season as a devoted TFC fan should be to give up your homelife and shadow Said everywhere, just in case.:D

lol...I'll introduce him to Lawrence Avenue East once I see him. :D

[Oldtimer]

He looks more like a pop star than a football player.:coolgleam:

[King Tut]

He looks more like a pop star than a football player.:coolgleam:

That's the "humble" look.

His pop star look is:

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/8233/modernsportmay202314080z.jpg

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/54/57599q2l.jpg

http://www.goalfmradio.com/Content/News/Images/7119/إبراهيم%20سعيد.jpg

http://www.rapee3.com/beauty_films/images/29ntj7k.jpg

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/7797/sgepxa16060108085417pho.jpg

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/8159/77qmdc93n9crfgmlh30a.jpg

http://www.eparena.com/new/cmsadmin/eparena-gallery-38-pic_2720_hima.jpg

http://www.ligtv.com.tr/uploads/news_manset_resim_15525_Saied002.jpg

http://www.egypty.com/Component/Photo/Archive/20070123145815_ArchivePhoto2.jpg

[Shaughno]

Whoa... that last one is awesome! What is he like 14 years old there??? LOL

[Suds]

That's the "humble" look.

His pop star look is:

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/8233/modernsportmay202314080z.jpg




if he can shore up our back line he can look any frickin' way he wants :D

I'm looking forward to seeing this guy in action. Any guy who's played that many games for Egypt has to have some quality, no?

[Shaughno]

Suds, quality was never the issue with Said... it was keeping his noggin' in check LOL

[Pigfynn]

It gets easier to accept when you just come to terms with the fact that ANY quality footballer that comes to TFC will have an obvious and well publicized down side

[King Tut]

Also keep in mind that alot of the shit he was getting in Egypt for his colored hair, funky hair styles and other shit is just because the culture over there is different and can be over conservative at times. No one here is really going to be bitch if he's sporting a tattoo, or dyes his hair or seen outside at Gretzky's having a pint, as long as he is bringing his top form to the pitch.

Over in Egypt, people rip him apart for everything from his custody issues with his ex-wife, his tattoo, his red/blue/green hair, his past times, all the way to the way he dresses. People over there are very judgmental and some times over conservative. Over here, he wont face the same issues he faced in Egypt and Libya.

With that said, even though the Egyptian coverage of MLS is pretty weak, he shouldn't get too wild and assume that he is safe from criticism back home (since he wants to return to the Egyptian NT). He needs to keep a mature and stable image.

[Broadview]

Not that I'm the kinda guy who critiques another dude's hair or anything, but I'm glad he's sporting the Mr. Clean look. TFC just doesn't feel right without a bald guy.

[Whoop]

He could look like Abel Xavier or Kei Kamara, if he can play... that's all that matters.

[King Tut]

He could look like Abel Xavier or Kei Kamara, if he can play... that's all that matters.
Exactly. In his early days with Al-Ahly, he was the best player in Egypt by a distant gap, and people were focusing on his looks and media was ripping him a new one everyday for his "deviant" looks and actions.

Here, we just want him to deliver the goods. He can do whatever he wants with his hair. It's not our business.

[rocker]

didn't he dye his hair red once? he should bring that style back for the reds.

[King Tut]

didn't he dye his hair red once? he should bring that style back for the reds.

Yes he did during his time at Ahly, then took it with him to Everton and pissed off quiet a few people over there. :D

[Suds]

Suds, quality was never the issue with Said... it was keeping his noggin' in check LOL

well .. hopefully being a bit older and mature will take care of a bit of that .. and the fact he may now be realizing his time as a footballer is running out

[T_Mizz]

Also keep in mind that alot of the shit he was getting in Egypt for his colored hair, funky hair styles and other shit is just because the culture over there is different and can be over conservative at times. No one here is really going to be bitch if he's sporting a tattoo, or dyes his hair or seen outside at Gretzky's having a pint, as long as he is bringing his top form to the pitch.

Over in Egypt, people rip him apart for everything from his custody issues with his ex-wife, his tattoo, his red/blue/green hair, his past times, all the way to the way he dresses. People over there are very judgmental and some times over conservative. Over here, he wont face the same issues he faced in Egypt and Libya.

With that said, even though the Egyptian coverage of MLS is pretty weak, he shouldn't get too wild and assume that he is safe from criticism back home (since he wants to return to the Egyptian NT). He needs to keep a mature and stable image.

Good call for him to come to North America where we put up with all kinds of shit from pro athletes as long as they're the best.

[ensco]

You could probably convince me of anything with this signing.

He could anchor the backline for years, or he might not make it to Toronto from Charleston.

[King Tut]

Heema in TFC Red

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs493.ash1/26936_1325821860221_1071141089_962007_7167916_n.jp g

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[rocker]

i was wondering who that dude was on TFC TV today. there's a scene of him on the video grabbing food at Charleston. haha

[Pigfynn]

Who is that giant walking with Marvell?

[King Tut]

i was wondering who that dude was on TFC TV today. there's a scene of him on the video grabbing food at Charleston. haha

Yah I just seen that.

TBH, TFC's coverage has been reallt weak. I got more news from Heema himself, than I did from Toronto media. There hasn't been one mention of him on TFC's website, even though all the other trialists have been mentioned.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

HAHA amazing, great to see!
keep up the great work
For some reason i think the dude with Marvell is Zak

[Nuvinho]

I saw a bunch of other players who I didn't recognize with TFC gear on. Thanks to the earlier pics on this thread, spotting Said was easy.haha!!!

[Pigfynn]

Zak who?

[Auzzy]

Yah I just seen that.

TBH, TFC's coverage has been reallt weak. I got more news from Heema himself, than I did from Toronto media. There hasn't been one mention of him on TFC's website, even though all the other trialists have been mentioned.

Who knows, maybe Preki likes to under-promise & over-deliver, and wait until after there's been pen on paper, unlike...

[Nuvinho]

Zak who?

Zack Herold?

[King Tut]

Who knows, maybe Preki likes to under-promise & over-deliver, and wait until after there's been pen on paper, unlike...

There was mention of other guys coming for trials. Maybe they are trying to keep it secretive? Probably not, as the entire MLS world knows Ibrahim Said is linked with TFC.

[Ossington Mental Youth]

Zack Herold?

yep, i might be wrong tho, i wonder if saric and kayizzi are still in there

[Pigfynn]

Zack Herold?

No way...1) that dude in the picture is white and 2) Herold is not anywhere near that tall

[Ossington Mental Youth]

i was looking at the second picture.
i dunno who that is maybe the armenian striker?

[Nuvinho]

http://torontofc.neulion.com/tfc/console.jsp

1. who is the guy sitting next to Chad Barrett?
2. the guy inbetween Gerba and DeGuz?
3. there is one whole table where ther trainers walked by I don't recognize?

[Nuvinho]

No way...1) that dude in the picture is white and 2) Herold is not anywhere near that tall

Zack Herold is not there......I am probably 100% sure.

I was just saying that was the Zack someone was referring to.

Zack Herold is probably still in school, and TFC probably told him to finish the year then join them, or they said stay home because you'll be traded soon.

[Rudi]

The tall dude next to Marvell is likely Milos Kocic.

[Pigfynn]

Is that the keeper^^

[Ossington Mental Youth]

yep former keeper at dcu

[Pigfynn]

Dude Is Tall

[rocker]

eat up, my friend, eat up

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c141/PhJD/charleston.jpg

[DigzTFC!]

The guy sitting with Barrett looks an Argie. Adrian Cann was sitting at the long table.

[Nuvinho]

The guy sitting with Barrett looks an Argie. Adrian Cann was sitting at the long table.

nice!!

still one whole table is unknown, probably all trialists, since they look like outcasts from the rest of the team....haha!!!

[King Tut]

eat up, my friend, eat up

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c141/PhJD/charleston.jpg

hahahaha...:D

[Auzzy]

There was mention of other guys coming for trials. Maybe they are trying to keep it secretive? Probably not, as the entire MLS world knows Ibrahim Said is linked with TFC.

You're right, I see that TFC has no consistent policy, as to when things get announced & when they don't. This isn't the only case, and it's not the first season of things like this...

They might be more careful in this case, as there's probably more hype about Said than about any other trialist/potential signing, and more reputation?? Nah, probably just random....

[Inklink]

Who is that giant walking with Marvell?

Some new trialist named Peter Crouch? :D

[rocker]

nice!!

still one whole table is unknown, probably all trialists, since they look like outcasts from the rest of the team....haha!!!

i think the table scene you're talking about is not a TFC table... cuz if you look at the two guys in the back they seem to have Charleston Battery yellow in their shirts. And some of the DC guys seem to be at that table too.

[King Tut]

TFC TV's video has already been uploaded on youtube by some follower in Egypt lol

mL688qn5lEY

Ibrahim Said (while playing for Ahly) unlucky on a long range missile, followed by a handful of bad lucky rebounds for his team...:D

f3qcqmrp9q8

[Auzzy]

Ibrahim Said (while playing for Ahly) unlucky on a long range missile, followed by a handful of bad lucky rebounds for his team...:D



Yup, looks about like how it will go with TFC. Said shoots an awesome almost-goal, Barrett & one or two others put the rebounds off the posts & the keeper from a few feet out, and DeRo finishes it up by gifting Row Z with a free game ball... ;)

[Brooker]

Jesus... how popular is Said in Egypt? The clip from TFC TV was put on youtube yesterday and already has 26,000 views. lol.

mL688qn5lEY

[King Tut]

Jesus... how popular is Said in Egypt? The clip from TFC TV was put on youtube yesterday and already has 26,000 views. lol.

mL688qn5lEY

He's quiet popular since he played for the big 3 (Ahly + Zamalek + Ismaily = Huge fanbase) in Egypt, as well as the Egyptian National Team (won with them two African cups in 2006 and 2008). He's also really marketable. He appeared in tons of commercials, an Arabic music video and a few movies. Also a lot of people in Egypt are closely monitoring him, as he's the first Egyptian player to seriously push for a move to MLS, even though he's not the first Egyptian to play in Toronto (Taher El Sheikh in 60s or 70s I believe). So in that regard, alot of people see it as a daring move on his part and want to see how it pans out for him. Kinda like when the English were following Beckham closely when he joined MLS.

The guy in the BMW
NIknJUVVehU

A cameo in a soccer movie. 1:08 (on the right) holding up a pint. :D
pZv4QGYPkgw

[King Tut]

The guy seems to be adapting just fine, getting along with everyone and seems way too excited with the experience and traveling involved with MLS...

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[jloome]

Tut, he played really well on Saturday. Any word on how he felt about it?

[rocker]

looks like quite the model there ;) is he gonna beat Jimmy B for style?

[UltraSuperMegaMo]

Adrian Cann was once an aspiring model.

[King Tut]

Tut, he played really well on Saturday. Any word on how he felt about it?

He's satisfied with his first 45 mins and aims to get better by every match, as he gels more with the team. He played really well on Saturday, but you haven't seen the best of Ibrahim Said just yet. As a person that knows his abilities really well and very familiar with him, I'm expecting way way way more of him, but believe Saturday was a decent start for him, considering he only arrived on Friday to Charleston. I want to see him playing as a CB for the entire 90 next match, so we can see him in the position we need him the most. Sure he can play as a winger, or even as a attacking mid/striker if he really had to, but we need him as a CB and need to test him on that position in a competitive match like Wednesday's.

[Yohan]

He's satisfied with his first 45 mins and aims to get better by every match, as he gels more with the team. He played really well on Saturday, but you haven't seen the best of Ibrahim Said just yet. As a person that knows his abilities really well and very familiar with him, I'm expecting way way way more of him, but believe Saturday was a decent start for him, considering he only arrived on Friday to Charleston. I want to see him playing as a CB for the entire 90 next match, so we can see him in the position we need him the most. Sure he can play as a winger, or even as a attacking mid/striker if he really had to, but we need him as a CB and need to test him on that position in a competitive match like Wednesday's.can you get him to stab garcia in the heart for us? ;)

[T_Mizz]

can you get him to stab garcia in the heart for us? ;)
That won't do any good, then he'll go to jail and we'll be without a CB still, get him to hire someone to stab Garcia instead;)

[Redpunkfiddle]

looks like quite the model there ;) is he gonna beat Jimmy B for style?

He could wear KD's furry pimp coat for all I care as long as he brings his game. This headcase might be one of our few brightspots.

[King Tut]

lol wtf?? :D :D

89j2l-oRj0Y

[Chevy]

I concur. WTF was that??

Its sounds like a computer reading his wiki entry. That has to be the wackiest thing on youtube.

[London]

said has a freind, or relative at the practices with him.

a rather big gentleman taking photo's and vid.


he must be making the vids

[sarsippius]

Love the Voice software! That voice could easily replace Marvin Tyler as the stand out voice in the Football World. :rolleyes:

Sounds like an awesome move to me. He was playing well on Saturday.

[King Tut]

said has a freind, or relative at the practices with him.

a rather big gentleman taking photo's and vid.


he must be making the vids


His name is Haytham Oraby. He is Hema's friend, his agent and also a key player in the deal to bring him over to MLS in the first place. He's also the key link between Ibrahim Said and the Egyptian media. He lives in America and so he's tagging along with him and helping him out during his time in USA.

lol @ "Ibrahim SAID" in the video. His last name is pronounced "Sa-EID", not pronounced as "SAID"...:D

BTW, those who attended practice yesterday, How were Said's two assists during the scrimmage?

[Blizzard]

Love the Voice software! That voice could easily replace Marvin Tyler as the stand out voice in the Football World. :rolleyes:

Sounds like an awesome move to me. He was playing well on Saturday.

(psssst ... Martin Tyler)

[rocker]

His name is Haytham Oraby. He is Hema's friend, his agent and also a key player in the deal to bring him over to MLS in the first place.

so does he actually have a signed deal yet, or is he indeed on trial and waiting for the contract?

[CretanBull]

lol @ "Ibrahim SAID" in the video. His last name is pronounced "Sa-EID", not pronounced as "SAID"...:D


One of my favourite writers/political influences is Edward Said...if I had a dime for every time I've heard his name pronounced "Said" and not "Sa-EID" I'd be rich!

[Dirk Diggler]

Oh man ... yellow boots ... he's a head case for sure ... :D

But seriously, is he signed yet or what? If the decision is up to TFC management, why is it taking so long to get him signed?

[King Tut]

so does he actually have a signed deal yet, or is he indeed on trial and waiting for the contract?

He is still on trial but his agent has been quoted as saying Ibrahim Said really impressed TFC coaching staff, and is on the "verge" of a signing a contract in the next few days. He had an impressive time so far (the Charleston match and practices). He was also involved in a scrimmage and assisted 2 really good goals and his confidence is at a high right now. If there are any brains in that coaching staff, this guy will be signed sooner, rather than later because he clearly is a player we are in desperate need of and I think he might be the most valuable player on the team for value. He's not a DP, but for the money he's expected to get, he's a bargain and is a difference maker. I say one more game on that "impressive" form and everything should be settled. He could be an Official Toronto FC player before we face Real Salt Lake on Saturday.


One of my favourite writers/political influences is Edward Said...if I had a dime for every time I've heard his name pronounced "Said" and not "Sa-EID" I'd be rich!

Well I'm sure people will pronounce it right, once the announcer on game day pronounces it right. Wonder if he'll butcher it. :rolleyes: :D

One or two chants and people will get the hang of it. He does go by "Hema" though.

[Super]

I was very impressed with what I saw from Said. The guy is clearly a very skilled footballer - no doubt. I don't care about the personality, background, or flashy outfits - that's his personal choice. Not sure why that's even a topic for anyone? Who cares! Although, perhaps with his somewhat trouble background (?) we shouldn't sign him to a guaranteed contract. We have enough of those to carry as of late.

To me it looks like he'd greatly improve our team, and if he wants to play for us I'd personally be very happy indeed. Sure, I only saw him in one single game, but from what I saw he stood out quite clearly, and if that's his level of play then he'd certainly improve our team - so let's get that signature to paper!

[Yohan]

someone put an umlaut over the I... hehehe

on other note, good to hear some positivity out of TFC camp

[Super]

He does go by "Hema" though.

Perhaps we should do something with that then?


someone put an umlaut over the I... hehehe

on other note, good to hear some positivity out of TFC camp

Most definitely!

[torontocelt]

someone put an umlaut over the I... hehehe

on other note, good to hear some positivity out of TFC camp

Ha, ha, well here is one possibly negative comment about him, why has he only played 130 games or so in 10 years and at 8 different clubs (including TFC), that is what it says on wiki anyway? I know the guy has a big mouth etc but if wiki is right then that is a poor amount of matches for someone to play, that is only 13 club games a season? On another note I am amazed to see the amount of caps he has picked up during that time for Egypt, he has averaged about 5 caps a season which for me would basically make him first choice. How can he play so little for his clubs but still be a first choice for Egypt? I could understand if he were of Maldini proportions but from his club career he just looks like a journey man. Is his wiki stats right?

[Gixmo]

I've been impressed with the play of Said so far, and agree with many that he fits a position that we need to fill. He's a great deal for the asking price, and if he 'behaves' (For the better lack of a word) properly, he'll see his way on to the team.

The best part of Mr. Said is that he is taking his trial seriously and pushing forward to achieve a goal. Forget the entourage, they are there to document his attempt. If they happen to capture a dedicated rise to join the ranks at TFC and his followers see this it is a Win-Win for both parties involved.

I guess we'll see, but he looks very solid so far and impressive. Give him time for match fitness and I think we may have a diamond here!!

[jloome]

Ha, ha, well here is one possibly negative comment about him, why has he only played 130 games or so in 10 years and at 8 different clubs (including TFC), that is what it says on wiki anyway? I know the guy has a big mouth etc but if wiki is right then that is a poor amount of matches for someone to play, that is only 13 club games a season? On another note I am amazed to see the amount of caps he has picked up during that time for Egypt, he has averaged about 5 caps a season which for me would basically make him first choice. How can he play so little for his clubs but still be a first choice for Egypt? I could understand if he were of Maldini proportions but from his club career he just looks like a journey man. Is his wiki stats right?

TC, I'm not sure you understand quite how whacked the guy was. He showed up at Everton with pink hair, then flew home AFTER SIGNING FOR THEM to play for his old club in a domestic derby.

He was pretty nuts when he was younger, but was considered in the late 90s, early part of the decade to be one of the hottest defensive prospects on the planet.

He could've played at any level. Any level. He's a really, really good player. But he's been seen as a cast-off for a few years now, because in the Arab world, behaving like a jackass is 10X more embarassing than it is here. And despite Tut's assertion that it was mostly lifestyle, I politely disagree. He was a suspension machine on the pitch, as well, because of his intensity in a league that, while technically superior to MLS, isn't as physical.

But he's a lot older now and Tut and others who know of the guy say he's matured. If he can still bring the fire, but keep the cards down, he'd be one of the best defenders in the league from day one.

[torontocelt]

TC, I'm not sure you understand quite how whacked the guy was. He showed up at Everton with pink hair, then flew home AFTER SIGNING FOR THEM to play for his old club in a domestic derby.

He was pretty nuts when he was younger, but was considered in the late 90s, early part of the decade to be one of the hottest defensive prospects on the planet.

He could've played at any level. Any level. He's a really, really good player. But he's been seen as a cast-off for a few years now, because in the Arab world, behaving like a jackass is 10X more embarassing than it is here. And despite Tut's assertion that it was mostly lifestyle, I politely disagree. He was a suspension machine on the pitch, as well, because of his intensity in a league that, while technically superior to MLS, isn't as physical.

But he's a lot older now and Tut and others who know of the guy say he's matured. If he can still bring the fire, but keep the cards down, he'd be one of the best defenders in the league from day one.

Here's hoping he delivers the goods but his stats for the past ten years indicate that there is definite potential for this to go all wrong. If he can sort out the defence he will be a legend here, that should provide a good incentive for him.

[Yohan]

TC, I'm not sure you understand quite how whacked the guy was. He showed up at Everton with pink hair, then flew home AFTER SIGNING FOR THEM to play for his old club in a domestic derby.
you mean, this guy is going to give Kei Kamara a run for his money in bad hair day competition?

I like him already! :cool:

[Chevy]

I'm very hopeful, but part of me thinks this is Laurent Robert Part Deux

[jabbronies]

Can he speak english? and if so, how well?

[Shaughno]

I believe Tut said he can speak and understand it well enough to get by.

[JonO]

He could be an Official Toronto FC player before we face Real Salt Lake on Saturday.
To be honest, I would be surprised if he signed anything until the CBA is sorted out. Last thing in the world he would want would be to dragged into a strike before playing his first game.

To be honest, I'm not sure what affect a strike would have on the players, but I'm assuming that they would still be under contract and couldn't play in other leagues...

[Shaughno]

You may be right JonO... but other teams seem to be signing players??

[JonO]

Well then either they know something I don't (which is possible) or their agents are idiots (which is also possible). This all depends on my assuption that a striking player could not play elsewhere and the player's options...

[Chevy]

I would think that any player signing would insist on an out clause in case of a work stoppage.

however the idiot agent theory above is quite possible...

[Eastend]

Ha, ha, well here is one possibly negative comment about him, why has he only played 130 games or so in 10 years and at 8 different clubs (including TFC), that is what it says on wiki anyway? I know the guy has a big mouth etc but if wiki is right then that is a poor amount of matches for someone to play, that is only 13 club games a season? On another note I am amazed to see the amount of caps he has picked up during that time for Egypt, he has averaged about 5 caps a season which for me would basically make him first choice. How can he play so little for his clubs but still be a first choice for Egypt? I could understand if he were of Maldini proportions but from his club career he just looks like a journey man. Is his wiki stats right?

Could also be looked at as he has a lot of leg left since he hasn't played many games in the last 10 years.

[Darlofletch]

[quote=King Tut;932815]....

lol @ "Ibrahim SAID" in the video. His last name is pronounced "Sa-EID", not pronounced as "SAID"...:D

quote]

Made me think of this.

[youtube]JFSpRgIhffM[\youtube]

From 3:20 onwards, if the embedding works.

Which it didn't, but here's the full link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFSpRgIhffM&feature=related

[King Tut]

I believe Tut said he can speak and understand it well enough to get by.

Exactly.

He is not "great". But in terms of communicating on the pitch, he knows enough to get by.

[King Tut]

To be honest, I would be surprised if he signed anything until the CBA is sorted out. Last thing in the world he would want would be to dragged into a strike before playing his first game.

To be honest, I'm not sure what affect a strike would have on the players, but I'm assuming that they would still be under contract and couldn't play in other leagues...

I'm 100% sure he's aware of the CBA. He's constantly in touch with Zaki Abdel Fattah who is more than familiar with MLS and is a good friend of Preki's since his days with Chivas USA and LA Galaxy. I hope this CBA bullshit doesn't end up costing us a good player like Said. Here's hoping there's positive back room news that we don't know about yet.


[quote=King Tut;932815]....

lol @ "Ibrahim SAID" in the video. His last name is pronounced "Sa-EID", not pronounced as "SAID"...:D

quote]

Made me think of this.

[youtube]JFSpRgIhffM[\youtube]

From 3:20 onwards, if the embedding works.

Which it didn't, but here's the full link.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFSpRgIhffM&feature=related

:D :D :D :D

hahahaha