Egypt’s goalkeepers coach Saafan El Saghir defends team and calls for unity

Egypt’s goalkeepers coach, Saafan El Saghir, spoke out following Egypt’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, revealing intense criticism and pressure the coaching staff faced from the very start.

He praised head coaches Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan for their continued success, saying: “The national team’s staff faced a major battle since taking charge due to the consistent achievements of Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan with every club they managed. Unfortunately, everyone who attacked us isn’t patriotic.”

El Saghir stressed their main goal has always been bringing joy to Egyptian fans, and the team is committed to achieving even more. He celebrated the strong bond among Egypt’s goalkeepers, Mohamed El Shenawy and Mostafa Shobeir in particular, calling their camaraderie “exceptional.” He said, “All of them have the skills to play for top European clubs.”

He also mentioned that Ahmed El Shenawy from Pyramids will join the squad soon, emphasizing: “There are no issues between him and Hossam Hassan and the door is open to all. Ahmed is among the best keepers in Egypt.”

El Saghir concluded that team spirit will help Egypt continue to shine on the continental and global stage.