Hossam Hassan has called on Egypt’s players to give everything for the national team, while insisting that performance rather than club or age will determine who earns a place in his squad.
The Egyptian national team is preparing for the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with the Pharaohs set to host Angola in Cairo on 25 September before travelling to face South Sudan on 29 September.
Speaking on the sidelines of a meeting between the Egyptian Football Association and the technical staffs of the national teams, Hassan praised the supporters for their continued backing of the team at home and abroad.
“The fans of the Egyptian national team deserve that we fight to make them happy.”
Hassan said the national team had succeeded in restoring the smiles of Egyptian supporters, with fans once again showing strong backing after a period marked by improved performances, spirit and results.
He also called on players representing Egypt at all age levels to understand the responsibility that comes with wearing the national team shirt.
The coach said Egypt’s name must remain at the forefront and urged players to achieve that through hard work, determination and total commitment.
Hassan also reflected on Egypt’s achievement at the 2026 World Cup, describing himself as extremely pleased with what the team accomplished.
He said the presidential reception held for the Egyptian delegation after its return from the World Cup was a badge of honour for him. He added that every word spoken by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi during the reception carried important significance.
According to Hassan, the national team’s technical staff has received full backing from the Egyptian Football Association’s board, both under the previous administration led by Gamal Allam and the current board headed by Hani Abu Rida.
He regarded that support as one of the major factors behind the team’s recent progress and said greater cooperation and coordination would be needed in the next period to meet the expectations of Egyptian fans.
Hassan also stressed the importance of confidence in Egyptian coaches and national football figures. He said President Sisi had underlined the value of trusting national elements and argued that Egyptian coaches should be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities.
He also discussed the relationship between the national team and league coaches, highlighting the importance of earning their confidence regardless of the identity of the opponent.
The coach pointed to Egypt’s World Cup meeting with Argentina in the last 16 as evidence that the national team can compete against any opponent. He added that the current generation has significant potential and that the conditions are favourable for achieving major results.
On squad selection, Hassan said participation in the World Cup had benefited all of Egypt’s players. He explained that his decisions are not primarily influenced by the clubs players represent or their ages, but by their performances.
He said he considers his conscience when giving players opportunities with the national team.
Mohamed Salah, Egypt’s captain, was among those Hassan said had gained from the World Cup experience. He noted that Salah had played in two new positions during the tournament.
Hassan also explained his decision to call up Hamza Abdel Karim, the Barcelona striker, saying the selection was based on his complete belief in the player’s abilities.
He added that some Egyptian players had seen their market values rise following the World Cup, while highlighting the different working conditions faced by national and foreign coaches.
According to Hassan, a foreign coach seeks to operate in an ideal environment, whereas a national coach is expected to work regardless of the circumstances.
The message comes as Egypt prepares to begin another campaign with qualification for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations as its immediate target.
