SIX foreign-based players included in Egypt squad for pre-World Cup friendlies in March

Head coach of Egypt, Hossam Hassan is meticulously monitoring both local and foreign players in an attempt to assemble a strong squad ahead of the impending 2026 World Cup tournament to be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

As the World Cup approaches, the Egyptian FA has lined up two high-profile friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Spain, designed to test the Pharaohs’ squad and fine-tune tactics ahead of the global tournament.

The Egypt-Saudi Arabia friendly will take place on Thursday, March 26, at the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium, while the clash against Spain is scheduled for Monday, March 30, at the iconic Lusail Stadium

The North African giants has received a squad boost, with six foreign-based players expected to be available for the March friendlies.

Liverpool star Mohammed Salah, Manchester City attacker Omar Marmoush, as well as Hamdi Fathi, Rami Rabia, Ibrahim Adel, and Mostafa Mohamed are all available for the international break.

Meanwhile, Hossam Hassan is awaiting clearance from the Egyptian Football Association to include Haitham Hassan, who plays professionally for Real Oviedo in Spain. Additionally, the team is monitoring the recovery of Mohamed Abdelmonem, who could join the camp if he gains match fitness with OGC Nice following his rehabilitation from a cruciate ligament injury.

This camp marks a crucial stage for Egypt, who finished fourth at the recent Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Pharaohs were drawn in Group G for the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Belgium national football team, Iran national football team, and New Zealand national football team.

With a combination of experienced internationals and emerging talents, Hossam Hassan’s squad aims to use the Qatar camp to build cohesion, sharpen tactical understanding, and enter the World Cup in peak condition.