Egypt coach Hassan says Egypt cannot rely on Salah ahead of Bafana friendly

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan says his side cannot rely on Mohamed Salah ahead of their international friendly against Bafana Bafana on Sunday.

Hassan has recently attracted attention for his criticism of Egypt’s players and the standard of the Egyptian Premier League, with reports suggesting his comments have created tension with some members of the squad, including Salah.

Salah was absent as Egypt began their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with a 5-0 victory over South Sudan on Tuesday.

The Liverpool forward’s absence came amid what Hassan described as “personal circumstances”, with the coach insisting Egypt must build a team that does not depend on one individual.

” Mohamed Salah is a very important player in world football at any time, but he was absent due to personal circumstances,” Hassan said, according to Ahram Online.

“That is why I say the entire national team was going through difficult circumstances in the Angola match. Things would have been different if we had had a longer preparation period and had avoided injuries.

“I am not making excuses or offering justifications because the national team may be affected, but it does not depend on any one player. All the players are important.

“At the same time, it is not right for a country of 120 million people for the national team to depend on one player.”

Hassan said his priority was to work with the players available to him and develop a strong core for the national team.

“It is my responsibility to work with the committed players who are available to build a strong core for the national team,” he added.

“I try to choose my words carefully when I speak because my intentions are good, but I am often misunderstood.”

Egypt will face South Africa in a friendly on Sunday as both sides continue preparations for their respective international commitments.