Egypt boss explains shock Mohamed Salah omission amid rift rumours

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Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has moved to dispel rumours surrounding Mohamed Salah’s relationship with the national side, following domestic media debate over the forward’s absence from Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan.

Discussions have mounted since the seven-time African champions were held to a 0-0 draw by Angola in their Group B opener, during which Salah was substituted midway through the second half before departing the camp the following day.

Speculation grew after Hassan stated the substitution was made for “technical reasons”, despite Salah showing strong form following his move to Turkish club Trabzonspor from Liverpool.

Egyptian reports also linked the debate to earlier remarks by Hassan regarding senior players, including goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy who he previously claimed “at one point was finished”, prompting questions about squad morale.

However, Hassan offered a conciliatory message ahead of the squad’s journey to Juba, emphasising Salah’s importance to Egypt’s plans.

Hossam Hassan has denied he has an issue with Salah (Reuters)

“I respect all the players, especially Mohamed Salah. He is an important and influential player, one of the team’s key pillars, a great player and a vital member of the team, as well as one of the best players in the world,” he told reporters.

The manager explained that the 34-year-old’s absence against South Sudan was agreed prior to the Angola fixture due to concerns regarding the artificial surface.

“We decided to rest Salah because of the artificial pitch. He had discussed the matter with me before the Angola match, and we agreed on it,” Hassan said.

“We need Salah in the upcoming matches. The well-being of every player is my top priority, and I have great confidence in all the players,” he added.

Egypt are chasing their first win of the qualification campaign as they target a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

Salah could have a crucial role to play as he aims to prove he is can still operate at the highest level after leaving Liverpool following a nine-year stay at Anfield this summer.

He has since scored seven goals in eight games across all competitions for Trabzonspor.