Ali Maher set to replace Hossam Hassan as Egypt manager

Ali Maher is expected to become the next manager of Egypt, with the Egyptian Football Association deciding to appoint the Ceramica Cleopatra head coach as the successor to Hossam Hassan.

According to broadcaster Ibrahim Fayek, the association has begun arrangements for a new coaching staff and is waiting for Maher to finish Ceramica Cleopatra’s Egypt Cup match against Abu Qir before meeting him to finalise the details of his appointment.

The talks are also expected to cover the make-up of the technical team that will work alongside him.

Maher is expected to be assisted by Mohamed Abdel Karim, while the Egyptian Football Association board wants Mohamed Abdel Wahed to remain part of the new coaching set-up.

Fayek had earlier reported that a decision had been taken to end Hassan’s time in charge, with an official announcement about his departure expected on the evening of 13 November 2026.

“Everything is over. The decision has already been taken and it will be announced tonight. Hossam Hassan will not be the head coach of Egypt,” Fayek wrote on his official Facebook page.

The expected change comes amid a period of increasing tension around the national team. The Egyptian Football Association recently issued a statement calling on the media and supporters to remain calm and avoid escalation, while stressing that the team’s interests and stability were its main priorities.

Hassan has also been barred from making media appearances by the Supreme Council for Media Regulation following controversies that extended beyond football.

Additional pressure followed a dispute between Hassan and Egypt captain Mohamed Salah during the October international break.

Maher and Hossam El Badry had both been mentioned as possible replacements for Hassan, but attention has now shifted towards the Ceramica Cleopatra manager as negotiations and his meeting with association officials approach.

Egypt are scheduled to face Malawi in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on 13 November 2026.