The Egyptian Football Association is considering a proposal to reduce the number of foreign players allowed in Egyptian Premier League squads in an attempt to reshape the league structure and composition of club rosters in the upcoming seasons.
Per reports, the Egyptian FA board remains split on the issue. One faction supports lowering the quota from five foreign players per team to just three, while introducing stricter technical criteria and age limits for signing overseas talent. Proponents argue that such regulations would ensure foreign recruits deliver tangible technical value without limiting opportunities for domestic players.
Conversely, another group within the board favors maintaining the current rules, warning that reducing foreign players could weaken the league’s overall competitiveness. They stress that clubs competing in continental tournaments rely on high-quality foreign talent to remain competitive on the African stage.
Meanwhile, the domestic football governing body has not yet reached a final decision. The proposal is still under review as part of a broader evaluation of registration rules ahead of the new season’s transfer window.
Egypt’s national team coach, Hossam Hassan, voiced his concerns in a recent press conference, highlighting that the current influx of foreign players limits opportunities for Egyptian talent, particularly in attacking and playmaking positions. He suggested that lowering the foreign player quota could give local players more chances to develop, ultimately benefiting the national team’s depth and long-term stability.
The debate over foreign player limits remains one of Egyptian football’s most contentious issues, reflecting the ongoing tension between club ambitions and national team interests. Clubs often prioritize immediate success through foreign signings, while the national team seeks to maximize playing time and experience for homegrown talent.
The final outcome is expected to be determined in the federation’s upcoming meetings. Fans and clubs alike are eagerly awaiting the decision, which could significantly reshape squad planning and the composition of Egyptian Premier League teams next season.
