Egypt head into their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against Zimbabwe with renewed focus on Mohamed Salah, after head coach Hossam Hassan sought to ease concerns from Liverpool regarding the forward’s condition, mindset and commitment during the tournament.
Salah reported for international duty amid questions surrounding his physical state and workload, prompting unease at his club.
However, Hassan was quick to address the issue, stressing that the national team environment has consistently brought out the best in Egypt’s captain and talisman.
“Mohamed Salah had some issues at one point, but when he joins the national team, he bounces back,” Hassan said, underlining his belief in the forward’s ability to quickly refocus and deliver once he links up with the Pharaohs.
The Egypt coach dismissed any suggestion that Salah’s presence at the Africa Cup of Nations could negatively affect either his form or his readiness to return to club duty.
Instead, he portrayed international football as a positive catalyst for the Liverpool attacker, both mentally and physically.
Hassan explained that Salah’s mindset shifts when he puts on the national shirt, with the responsibility of leading Egypt on the continental stage sharpening his concentration.
According to the coach, that renewed drive often translates into strong performances not only for the national team, but also once Salah returns to Merseyside.
“Then he comes back better than before, and you’ll see that when he leaves the national team after helping us win and scoring goals, he’ll return to Liverpool and be even better,” Hassan added.
Those remarks were clearly intended to reassure Liverpool that their star player will not be adversely affected by his AFCON involvement.
With a demanding club schedule awaiting him after the tournament, Hassan’s comments emphasised that Egypt’s medical and technical staff are fully aware of the need to manage Salah carefully.
Salah’s importance to Egypt cannot be overstated. As captain and leading attacking threat, he carries the hopes of a nation eager to reclaim continental glory.
His presence in the squad provides experience, leadership and a proven goal threat, qualities that will be vital as Egypt begin their campaign against Zimbabwe.
The opening fixture marks the first step in what Egypt hope will be a deep run in the tournament.
For Hassan, maintaining harmony between club and country is essential, particularly when it comes to a player of Salah’s global stature.
By addressing Liverpool’s concerns publicly, the coach aimed to remove distractions and ensure that the focus remains squarely on the pitch.
Egypt’s preparations have centred on creating a balanced approach that allows Salah to express himself without unnecessary pressure.
Hassan has repeatedly highlighted the collective nature of the squad, but has also acknowledged that Salah’s influence can be decisive in key moments.
As kickoff approaches, the message from the Egypt camp is one of calm confidence.
Salah is fit, motivated and ready to lead, while assurances have been offered to Liverpool that his international duties will ultimately be beneficial rather than burdensome.
For Egypt, the priority is clear: start the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations strongly and build momentum.
With their captain at the heart of their plans, and his coach firmly backing him, the Pharaohs believe they are well placed to do just that.
