AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Ali Maher calls for unity as he targets exciting Egypt national team

New Egypt head coach Ali Maher has called on supporters to rally behind the national team as he begins his tenure with ambitions of building a strong side capable of playing attractive and competitive football.

Maher was recently appointed to lead the Pharaohs and is preparing for his first official assignment, with Egypt scheduled to face Malawi on November 13 and 17 in the third and fourth rounds of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.

Speaking on ON Sport, the former Egypt international expressed gratitude to the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), particularly president Hani Abu Rida, for giving him the opportunity to take charge of the national team.

He also acknowledged the contributions of former national team officials Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan, while insisting that Egyptian coaches deserve opportunities to lead the country’s senior national side.

“It is the legitimate right of any Egyptian coach to train the Pharaohs national team. I thank Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan for what they have provided to the Egyptian national team,” Maher said.

“We work hard, we fall and get up many times, but we are used to it. I hope everyone will rally around the Egyptian national team.”

The 53-year-old expressed confidence in the quality of players available to him, singling out Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah for special praise.

“I have outstanding players, and I have the best player in the history of Egypt, Mohamed Salah, who is a brand. We are all proud of him, and he is a role model for all players,” he added.

Maher also highlighted the strength of Egypt’s foreign-based and domestic players, insisting that the squad has enough quality to deliver success in the coming months.

On his appointment, the new coach described his discussions with the EFA leadership as straightforward, praising the association’s commitment to improving Egyptian football.

He further explained that his technical team selections were guided by professionalism, dedication and the ability of each member to fulfil their responsibilities.

“My choices are based on each individual being able to give their best in the position they hold. The people I chose are responsible, love the job and want to offer something to Egypt,” he said.

Maher insisted that taking charge of the national team was a responsibility that required commitment and hard work, rather than simply occupying a prestigious position.

He concluded by appealing to Egyptian supporters to give the players their full backing, expressing his desire to build a team that combines entertaining football with strength in attack and defence.

“Everyone should be around the national team, and the players should feel the support and love. God willing, we will be a strong team that plays enjoyable football and is fierce on both the offensive and defensive levels,” he said.

The upcoming double-header against Malawi will provide Maher with his first opportunity to translate his ambitions into results as Egypt seek to strengthen their position in the race to qualify for the 2027 AFCON.