Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has called up Al Ahly’s Karim El Debes for the upcoming international break in March, addressing a left-back shortage in the national team.
The Pharaohs are set to face Ethiopia in Morocco on March 21 before taking on Sierra Leone four days later in the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.
A major setback hit the squad with Mohamed Hamdi, Pyramids’ first-choice left-back, ruled out for three weeks due to a front cruciate ligament strain. His absence leaves a significant gap in Hossam Hassan’s plans.
To compensate, the coach has settled on El Debes as a reinforcement, adding depth alongside Ahmed Nabil “Coca,” an Al Ahly midfielder capable of playing at left-back.
Meanwhile, the status of Zamalek’s Ahmed Fattouh remains uncertain as he continues his recovery from injury. The coaching staff has yet to make a final decision on his potential inclusion.
With El Debes stepping in, Egypt will be looking to maintain momentum in their World Cup qualification campaign, despite the injury setbacks.
