Background and career
Mohamed Barakat Ahmed Bastamy (born 7 September 1976) is an Egyptian former professional footballer. A right-footed playmaker, he usually played as an right winger or attacking midfielder for Egyptian club Al Ahly and the Egypt national team.
Barakat was considered by many as one of the most talented players in Africa. His hallmarks are surging runs from midfield which often disrupt opposing defences, as well as his box-to-box work ethic, which makes him an important figure both in defence and attack. Thanks to his noticeable achievements and talent, his fans gave him the nickname The Mercurial (Arabic: بركات الزئبقي), He reached his peak in 2005 and 2006, helping his club Al Ahly to win the CAF Champions League 2005 and CAF Champions League 2006 and Egypt win their fifth African Cup of Nations Egypt 2006. However, in 2006 his career was marred by a long spell of injuries.
