Mohamed Salah’s departure from the Egyptian national team camp prior to their departure for Juba has ignited a management crisis that threatens the stability of the technical staff led by head coach Hossam Hassan, despite official EFA statements confirming the decision was pre-arranged to protect the player from South Sudan’s artificial turf.
While official accounts maintain that Salah was rested for the September 29 fixture, local reports link his exit to frustration over his 60th-minute substitution during the 0–0 draw against Angola, particularly given that he was not suffering from an injury.
Hassan replaced Salah with attacking midfielder Ahmed Mostafa “Zizo” after an hour of play—a tactical decision that drew widespread criticism given the Pharaohs’ need for a win. Reports indicate that the team captain left the dressing room immediately after the match without engaging in lengthy discussions with the manager.
Addressing reporters post-match, Hassan defended his choice: “Substituting Mohamed Salah was a tactical decision tailored to the flow and demands of the match,” adding, “I am satisfied with the team’s performance, and all players gave their utmost effort.” His brother Ibrahim Hassan, the national team manager, reiterated that Salah requested permission to leave and that an agreement to rest him from artificial turf surfaces had been finalized prior to the Angola fixture.
The incident coincides with escalating tension between the technical staff and Al Ahly, following Hassan’s comments characterizing goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy as “finished” at club level before regaining form with the national team. Al Ahly responded with an official statement condemning the remarks as offensive to a club captain and demanding the EFA clarify its position.
Egyptian media outlets report that the Egyptian Football Association is seriously considering dismissing Hassan and his backroom staff if the team fails to deliver a convincing victory against South Sudan following the disappointing performance against Angola.
Egypt’s goalless draw at Cairo International Stadium triggered intense scrutiny, with critics highlighting the stark contrast between the team’s recent passive display and their strong showing at the 2026 World Cup.
The 60-year-old manager renewed his contract following the World Cup to remain in charge until 2020. However, dismissal now appears increasingly imminent as friction mounts between Hassan, Salah, Al Ahly, and key stakeholders within Egyptian football.
