The spotlight surrounding Egypt national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has largely focused on established stars such as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, but attention is increasingly turning toward a new generation of players capable of making a major impact on football’s biggest stage.
Egypt are preparing for the World Cup, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico between 11 June and 19 July, amid growing hopes that the Pharaohs can produce their best-ever performance in the competition.
While the expectations surrounding Salah remain immense, World Cup history has often been shaped by unexpected breakout stars, and Egypt appear to have several players capable of emerging from the shadows during the tournament.
Among the names generating excitement is young forward Hamza Abdel Karim, who has attracted attention at FC Barcelona and is regarded as one of the country’s brightest prospects.
The striker earned a place in Egypt’s squad amid strong praise from the technical staff led by Hossam Hassan and reportedly received encouragement from Salah during the national team’s training camp in Ohio.
Supporters and former players have increasingly backed Hamza Abdel Karim to become one of the revelations of the tournament, particularly after Hossam Hassan selected him ahead of Mostafa Mohamed of FC Nantes.
If given sufficient playing time, the young attacker could establish himself as one of the tournament’s emerging talents.
Another player viewed as capable of making a breakthrough is Ibrahim Adel, whose versatility and attacking qualities have made him one of Egypt’s most intriguing options.
Known for his speed and technical skill, Ibrahim Adel is capable of operating in multiple attacking roles and may provide Egypt with a direct attacking outlet against stronger opponents.
The player has openly spoken about his ambition to compete in Europe’s elite leagues and one day play for Barcelona. After moving to Danish club FC Nordsjælland, the World Cup is being viewed as a major opportunity for him to elevate his profile on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Haitham Hassan has emerged as a potential “hidden weapon” within the Egyptian squad despite not receiving the same level of publicity as some of the team’s senior stars.
The winger, who plays for Real Oviedo, is valued for his speed and technical ability in transition situations and has impressed in his early appearances for Egypt.
His performances against Saudi Arabia, Spain and Russia have strengthened belief that he could become an important tactical option during the World Cup, particularly in matches requiring individual creativity.
Midfielder Emam Ashour is also expected to play a central role in Egypt’s ambitions.
Having re-established himself as one of the country’s leading players since returning to Al Ahly SC, Ashour is widely regarded as one of the most complete midfielders in Egyptian football.
His energy, defensive work and attacking influence have made him a key figure for both club and country, and there is growing belief that he could emerge as one of the standout midfielders of the tournament if he reproduces his domestic form on the global stage.
In goal, Mostafa Shobeir is increasingly being viewed as one of Egypt’s most important assets.
The Al Ahly SC goalkeeper has earned praise for his modern style of play and his ability to initiate attacks from the back with his distribution.
Mostafa Shobeir has reportedly moved ahead of teammate Mohamed El Shenawy in the national team hierarchy and is expected to start at the World Cup.
His displays, including a notable performance in the friendly match against Spain, have highlighted his strengths in one-on-one situations, positioning and overall command of the penalty area.
As Egypt prepare for another appearance on football’s biggest stage, hopes are rising that alongside their established stars, a new generation of players could help reshape the country’s World Cup history.
