Egypt coach Hossam Hassan unfazed by Haitham Hassan absence for Angola clash

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has provided an update on Haitham Hassan’s injury ahead of the Pharaohs’ opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Angola and South Sudan.

Haitham Hassan, who plies his trade for Celtic has reportedly been sidelined by an injury and will miss Egypt’s upcoming fixtures as he continues his recovery.

The player joined Celtic in a reported £9 million deal and has made nine appearances for the Scottish club this season, starting five of those matches.

Despite Haitham’s absence, Hassan insisted that Egypt have enough quality within the squad to cope with the setback and said the player’s recovery remains the priority.

“Haitham Hassan is receiving intensive treatment at the moment, but I am not worried about his absence. We have many excellent players who are capable of replacing him,” Hassan said.

The Egypt coach also stressed the importance of Haitham to his long-term plans for the national team, while acknowledging that the timing of the injury prevented him from joining the current camp.

“Haitham Hassan is a vital technical pillar for our long-term vision, but his recent injury made it difficult for him to join us in this camp,” he added.

Hassan further emphasised that the national team would not rush the player back before he has fully recovered.

“We place the player’s health and full physical recovery above all else and look forward to his return as soon as he regains full fitness,” he said.

The Egypt coach also dismissed the possibility of allowing the injury setback to affect the team’s preparations, insisting that the Pharaohs must continue working towards their objectives despite the absence of key players.

“We cannot stop moving forward or make excuses because of injuries. Our success lies in how we deal with these challenges, and I assure everyone that the team is fully prepared,” Hassan concluded.

Egypt are preparing to begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, with Hassan expected to rely on the depth of his squad to cover for Haitham Hassan’s absence.