Egypt assistant coach Bassem Ali announces departure a day after appointment

Bassem Ali has announced his departure from Egypt’s coaching staff only a day after the Egyptian Football Association confirmed his appointment as assistant coach to new manager Ali Maher.

The former Al Ahly player shared a message on his Instagram account thanking the coaching team and wishing them success in the next stage of their work.

Ali posted the statement using Instagram Stories, saying he had accepted the decision while acknowledging that he had hoped to remain part of the new coaching staff and represent his country.

He also asked supporters to back Maher and his assistants in the period ahead.

“God has willed it, and what He wills is ultimately what happens. God never does anything bad to anyone, and I am content with His wisdom. Praise and thanks always belong to God,” Ali wrote.

“I hope people support and stand behind Captain Ali Maher and his respected coaching staff. I am honoured to have been one of them, and I wish them every success in the next stage.

“I had hoped to be there with them and represent our national team, because being involved with and representing your country is a great honour for any coach.

“Every success to this respected staff, who deserve support and backing. God willing, the Lord of the worlds will compensate me.”

Ali Maher officially took charge of Egypt last Saturday, replacing Hossam Hassan.

The Egyptian Football Association announced the composition of Maher’s coaching team on Sunday. It included Mohamed Abdel Karim as general coach, Bassem Ali as assistant coach and Mostafa Fathi as goalkeeper coach.

Ali’s departure comes as Egypt prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Malawi on 13 November 2026.