Shikabala calls for resignation of Egypt coach Hossam Hassan amid growing criticism

Former Zamalek captain Mahmoud Abdel-Razek, popularly known as Shikabala, has sent a strong message to Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan, suggesting that he should consider resigning from his position amid growing controversy surrounding his leadership.

Shikabala expressed concern over what he described as an unusual level of criticism and public debate surrounding the position of Egypt’s national team coach, insisting that the role should command greater respect and authority.

Speaking on the ‘Al-Kora Ma’a Fayek’ programme on MBC Egypt 2, the former Egyptian international said he had never witnessed such commotion surrounding the national team coach.

“For the first time in the history of the Egyptian national team, I see a fuss about the national team’s coach,” Shikabala stated.

He further argued that Hassan should consider stepping down if the situation continues, explaining that the national team manager must enjoy a certain level of prestige and authority that commands respect from players and supporters.

“As someone who loves Hossam Hassan, you should resign, because the coach of the Egyptian national team should have prestige and personality, which we have not witnessed during the past period,” he added.

Shikabala stressed that the national team coach should occupy a special position within Egyptian football, with players recognising his authority and looking up to him as a symbol of the country’s football identity.

He also drew a comparison with Mohamed Salah, pointing out that younger players regard the Liverpool star as an important figure and role model, while insisting that the national team manager should equally command respect.

“There should be no fuss about the Egyptian national team coach. He should have a special status, and the players should see him as a great symbol, just as the young players see Mohamed Salah as their symbol. No one is bigger than Egypt,” he said.

Hassan is preparing to lead Egypt into their November international assignments, with the Pharaohs scheduled to face Malawi in a two-legged Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture.

Egypt will host the first encounter in Cairo on November 13 before travelling for the return fixture on November 17, as Hassan looks to guide the national team through the qualifying campaign.