Egyptian winger Haitham Hassan is preparing to make his first appearance at a FIFA World Cup, with growing anticipation that the Real Oviedo forward could emerge as one of the team’s notable attacking options in the tournament.
The 24-year-old’s rise has been closely followed in Egyptian football for several years, dating back to his time in the reserve team at Villarreal in Spain. His development in La Liga has been viewed as a key factor in his eventual inclusion in Egypt’s national team plans.
Born with French citizenship and of Egyptian and Tunisian heritage, Hassan has long been the subject of international attention, with both Egypt and Tunisia previously monitoring his eligibility. The uncertainty over his international future ended earlier this year when he committed to Egypt.
In March, Hassan opted to represent the Pharaohs and joined the national team camp under coach Hossam Hassan. He has since been included in the squad for the 2026 World Cup finals.
Growing influence through La Liga experience
Operating primarily as a right winger, Hassan has become part of the coaching staff’s tactical considerations following his decision to commit to Egypt.
Although he is yet to record a goal or assist in his first four international appearances against Saudi Arabia, Spain, Russia and Brazil, his performances have been received positively by supporters, who have praised his technical ability and movement.
His club career in Spain is seen as a key asset. Hassan has made 82 appearances for Real Oviedo, scoring four goals and registering six assists. Across La Liga competition with both Real Oviedo and Villarreal, he has featured in 39 matches, contributing three assists.
While he has not yet produced standout numbers at international level, the expectation is that his pace and one-on-one ability could become decisive at the World Cup stage.
Not positioned as Salah’s replacement
Despite comparisons in attacking roles, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan does not view Haitham Hassan as a direct replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Salah’s role in the national team differs significantly from a traditional right-sided winger position. Instead of staying wide, the former Liverpool forward operates closer to central attacking areas and goal-scoring positions, allowing greater flexibility in team selection.
This tactical structure opens the possibility for both players to feature in the same starting line-up, rather than competing for the same role.
The system previously used by Hossam Hassan has already seen Salah play alongside wide attacking options such as Ahmed Mostafa, known as “Zizo”. That pairing remains relevant to current selection discussions, with Zizo still regarded as a strong competitor for a place on the right side.
Competition and tactical balance
The presence of multiple right-sided attacking options has created healthy competition within the squad, with Hassan now part of a group vying for selection in a key position.
While his technical qualities and La Liga background add a different dimension to Egypt’s attacking options, he still faces competition from more established international players.
For the coaching staff, the challenge is balancing Salah’s central attacking freedom with the need for width and pace on the right flank.
World Cup opportunity ahead
As Egypt prepare for the 2026 World Cup, Hassan’s inclusion represents both a long-term investment and an immediate tactical option.
His performances in Spain have earned him a place on football’s biggest stage, where he will have the opportunity to translate club potential into international impact.
Although expectations remain measured due to his limited international output so far, his technical profile suggests he could become an important contributor as Egypt navigate the tournament.
