2025 AFCON: Hossam Hassan pushing for Egypt to open camp on December 1

Egyptian national team coach Hossam Hassan is urging the Pharaohs to begin preparations early ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Originally set to open camp on December 7, Hassan has requested that the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) move the start date to December 1.

In response, EFA president Hany Abou Rida has personally contacted Liverpool and Manchester City, seeking the early release of Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.

Both Premier League clubs have yet to respond, reportedly awaiting clarification from FIFA on the official player release date for major tournaments.

FIFA rules require clubs to release players 14 days prior to the start of an international competition.

Egypt have also scheduled a warm-up friendly against Nigeria on December 14 in Cairo. The Pharaohs will kick off their AFCON campaign against Zimbabwe, before facing South Africa and Angola.

The 2025 AFCON, hosted by Morocco, is set to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.