Iraq deny contact with former Egypt manager Hossam Hassan

The Iraqi Football Association has denied reports linking former Egypt manager Hossam Hassan with the vacant head coach position of the national team.

Ahmed Al-Moussawi, a member of the Iraqi Football Association, said no discussions had taken place with Hassan and that his potential appointment had never been considered by the governing body.

“Hossam Hassan did not reject any approach about managing the Iraq national team because the matter was never presented to him in the first place,” Al-Moussawi told Modern MTI television.

“There have been no negotiations between the Iraqi Football Association and coach Hossam Hassan. We did not negotiate with him over taking charge, and all the reports being circulated on the subject are baseless.”

The comments put an end to speculation that Hassan could begin a new coaching role outside Egypt after his departure from the national team.

Hassan’s spell in charge of Egypt began in February 2024. During his tenure, he guided the Pharaohs to qualification for the 2026 World Cup and to the round of 16 for the first time in the country’s World Cup history.

Although his contract was extended until 2030 in September, his time as manager ended only a few weeks later, with Ali Maher appointed to take over the team.

The final period of Hassan’s tenure was marked by considerable controversy. Reports claimed his relationship with several players had become strained, including Mohamed Salah and Mohamed El Shenawy.

Hassan and his brother, Ibrahim Hassan, the national team director, were also suspended for three matches by FIFA because of events surrounding Egypt’s game against Argentina at the World Cup.

The manager’s departure was further accompanied by family problems, according to the source.

Fixture listing

Egypt Africa Cup of Nations qualifying 13 November 2026 Malawi