Abou Rida backs Hossam Hassan after renewing Egypt coach’s contract

Egypt Football Association president Hany Abou Rida has defended national team head coach Hossam Hassan, insisting the former striker’s success is built on tactical ability and hard work rather than emotion alone.

Abou Rida also revealed that the decision to extend the contracts of Hassan and his coaching staff was made before Egypt’s World Cup Round of 16 meeting with Argentina, reflecting the federation’s confidence in the current technical team.

Long-standing faith in Egypt coach

Speaking on Al-Nahar TV’s Al-Sura programme with journalist Lamis Al-Hadidi, Abou Rida said he has known Hossam Hassan since his playing days with the Egyptian national team and revealed the coach had long been considered for the role.

He acknowledged that Hassan had initially been disappointed not to have been appointed earlier but praised his commitment to the job.

According to Abou Rida, the Egypt coach is hardworking, eager to improve the national team and willing to listen to those around him, while also displaying a calmer approach than in previous years.

‘I’d have hired a singer’

The Egyptian FA president dismissed suggestions that Hassan’s greatest strength is his passion, arguing that the former striker possesses significant tactical knowledge.

He also praised assistant coach Ibrahim Hassan for maintaining discipline within the squad during training camps.

“If it were just about enthusiasm, I would have hired a singer to ignite the players’ enthusiasm, not a coach like Hossam, who possesses great technical abilities and important tactical aspects.”

Contract decision made before Argentina clash

Abou Rida confirmed that Egypt’s football authorities had already decided to renew the coaching staff’s contracts before the team’s World Cup knockout match against Argentina.

He explained that a committee had been established to finalise the contractual arrangements but stressed that the details of the agreement would remain confidential.

The comments underline the Egyptian Football Association’s continued backing of Hossam Hassan as the Pharaohs seek to build on their recent progress and remain competitive on the international stage.