"I always wanted to play for the biggest European clubs. Now I have to admit that this dream is over, so I decided to return to Zamalek," Mido told Al-Hayat TV in a lengthy interview.

"It was me who contacted twin brothers Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan (coach and football director respectively) and told them that I want to get back to Zamalek, and the idea appealed to them."

Mido, one the best talents the Whites' youth system has ever nurtured, established himself as a professional footballer when he was just a teenager at the Cairo club.

Shortly afterwards, he kicked off a long journey in Europe.

Among other outfits, Mido had spells at Gent, Marseille, AS Roma, Tottenham Hotspur and Celta Vigo.

Now he's set to end his flamboyant journey where it started.

"All my close friends told me that returning to Zamalek is not the best move, but I've made up my mind and I will play for the club till I retire," said Mido, who turns 28 next month.

"I want to help Zamalek end their title drought, so I want to sign a three-year contract and stay with them for six or seven seasons overall."

Mido's only stint outside Europe over the past decade was at Zamalek last term, when he returned to the five-time African champions on a year-long loan from Middlesbrough.

However, the Egyptian nomad failed to impress, scoring one goal in the first half of the season before moving to West Ham United in the winter of 2010.

"Last season, I wasn't in good shape. My form is now better and I'm more psychologically stable too," he explained.

Mido terminated his deal with Ajax Amsterdam early this month due to lack of first-team opportunities.