The father of Egypt international Haitham Hassan has strongly denied reports claiming he criticised head coach Hossam Hassan over his son’s lack of playing time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The clarification comes after widespread speculation suggested there was growing frustration within the player’s family over Haitham Hassan’s continued absence from Egypt’s starting line-up and allegations that his father was unhappy with promises reportedly made by the national team coach.
Former Egyptian Football Association Professionals Committee member Wassim Ahmed addressed the rumours through his official Facebook page, revealing that he had personally contacted the player’s father to verify the reports.
According to Wassim Ahmed, Haitham Hassan’s father categorically denied making any of the statements attributed to him and dismissed the circulating reports as false.
“No one or journalist contacted me, and I did not make any statements. Everything said on my behalf is a lie and misleading,” Haitham Hassan’s father said.
He also stressed that his role as a parent does not extend to interfering in football-related decisions once his son has joined the national team.
“Like any father, my role ends as soon as I help my son reach the Egyptian national team. After that, I become a spectator and a fan and do not interfere in anything.”
The player’s father also highlighted Haitham Hassan’s professional attitude, pointing to the winger’s early development in European football as evidence of his maturity.
“Haitham is the youngest player to have signed a professional contract in Europe when he joined the first team of Châteauroux at the age of 16. He knows what professionalism means when dealing with all football situations, including the coach’s technical decisions.”
He insisted that the Real Oviedo winger fully respects the decisions made by Egypt’s coaching staff.
“He respects the technical director’s decisions, has no problem with them, and has not expressed any objection to not participating.”
Haitham Hassan has been part of Egypt’s squad throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup but is yet to make an appearance during the Pharaohs’ three group-stage matches.
Despite his lack of playing time, Egypt progressed to the Round of 32 after finishing as runners-up in Group G and will now prepare for a knockout clash against Australia.
The latest statement from the player’s family appears to end speculation surrounding any disagreement with head coach Hossam Hassan, reaffirming both Haitham Hassan’s professionalism and his commitment to the national team.
