by: Omar Mohamed, Omar Ahmed, Mahmoud Ehab
"Retirement is not the end of the story, but the beginning of a new chapter." With this perspective, we present an in-depth interview with Captain Hisham Hanafy, a former Al Ahly player who has transitioned into a multifaceted professional path including coaching and sports analysis. This interview explores the often-overlooked realities of life after retirement and the challenges athletes face when redefining their careers.
Q: To begin, how would you introduce yourself at this stage of your career?
A: I am Hisham Hanafy, a former player for Al Ahly. I currently work in coaching, particularly with youth teams, in addition to my role as a sports analyst. This phase represents a natural continuation of my journey in football in a different capacity.
Q: Is retirement a uniform decision among athletes?
A: Not at all. Retirement decisions vary significantly from one player to another. Some retire due to injury, others because of age, while some choose to step away voluntarily when they feel they have achieved enough. Ultimately, it depends on each individual’s personality and circumstances.
Q: How did you personally approach your retirement decision?
A: My decision stemmed from a personal realization that I could no longer perform at the same level. However, I did not completely leave the field. Instead, I transitioned into working within the club’s youth sector, which allowed me to remain closely connected to football.
Q: How important is professional development after retirement?
A: It is essential. I pursued internationally recognized coaching certifications, beginning with foundational licenses such as C and B, and progressing to more advanced levels. These courses are not offered continuously and require careful planning. I also obtained a European coaching license, which enables me to work internationally.
Q: How would you describe your experience playing for a major club like Al Ahly?
A: Playing for a top club instills a constant winning mentality. From a young age, players are placed under pressure to achieve titles. Competition is intense, and opportunities are earned through performance in training rather than reputation.
Q: What advice would you give to young players?
A: Football is unpredictable. A player may be at their peak and suddenly suffer an injury that ends their career. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in education alongside training. Discipline off the field is just as important as performance on it. This includes maintaining a healthy lifestyle, committing to proper rest, and staying focused.
Hisham Hanafy’s experience demonstrates that retirement is not the end of an athlete’s journey, but rather the beginning of a new path that requires awareness and preparation. While a player’s time on the field may come to an end, their impact can continue through coaching, management, and media, provided they plan wisely for the future.
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