Egypt coach Ali Maher plans extensive scouting of home-based players after November break

Egypt coach Ali Maher is planning to step up his scouting activities after the conclusion of the Pharaohs’ November training camp, with the technical team set to monitor domestic league matches in search of potential national team reinforcements.

The new coaching staff wants to expand its assessment of players competing in the Egyptian Premier League by attending as many matches as possible to identify performers who could strengthen the national team.

A source close to the Egyptian Football Association confirmed that the technical team has decided to attend most league fixtures following the international break, with Maher expected to distribute scouting responsibilities among his assistants.

The arrangement will allow members of the coaching staff to cover different matches simultaneously and monitor a wider pool of players across the domestic competition.

According to the source, the decision reflects the technical team’s determination to assess as many players as possible and ensure fairness in future national team selections.

The coaching staff believes that regularly watching league matches will provide a better opportunity to evaluate players based on their performances, consistency and overall contribution to their respective clubs.

The approach also marks a change from the previous administration under former head coach Hossam Hassan, whose technical team had reportedly refrained from attending domestic league matches in the period leading up to his departure.

Maher and his assistants are therefore expected to place greater emphasis on direct observation as they begin shaping their plans for upcoming international assignments.

Meanwhile, Egypt are scheduled to face Malawi in the third round of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers at Cairo International Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 9:00 pm local time on Friday.

The Pharaohs are drawn in Group B alongside Malawi, South Sudan and Angola as they continue their campaign for qualification to the continental tournament.