Hamada Talba says Hossam Hassan ‘wronged’ him as Egypt begin new chapter under Ali Maher

Former Egypt international Hamada Talba says he was treated unfairly during a previous spell under Hossam Hassan, while backing Ali Maher to bring a fresh approach to the national team.

Talba said he had long believed Maher could become one of Egypt’s leading coaches, having worked with him at Al Assiouty. Speaking by telephone to broadcaster Dr Ahmed al-Bakri, presenter of The Defender on Al Shams channel, he expressed confidence in Maher’s technical ability and coaching ideas.

“From the time I trained under him at Al Assiouty, I predicted that Ali Maher would become one of the best coaches in Egypt,” Talba said.

He described Maher as an attack-minded manager who wants his teams to play entertaining football. Talba believes supporters will notice a difference in the team’s performances, but urged them to give the new manager enough time before judging his work.

Egypt are preparing for their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Malawi. The first match is listed for 13 November 2026, with Egypt facing Malawi, before the return fixture on 17 November 2026, when Malawi are listed to play Egypt.

Talba also praised the atmosphere in the current Egypt camp, saying the players appeared relaxed and united. He said the visible happiness among the squad suggested a positive environment, which could have a beneficial effect on the team’s performances in the next phase.

The former international separately defended Mohamed Salah, describing the Egypt captain as a major figure and a footballing legend whose importance should not be underestimated.

Talba said it was difficult to find another player with Salah’s professional mentality and global personality. In his view, the Liverpool forward deserved special treatment that reflected his status and his contribution to Egyptian football.

Reflecting on his own experience with Hassan, Talba said he had been one of several players who were treated unfairly during the previous period. He added that some players had been made to take responsibility for failures in which they had not been involved.

Despite those comments, Talba rejected any suggestion that he was celebrating Hassan’s difficulties.

“God forbid we gloat,” he said, insisting that Hassan was going through a period in which he needed support and encouragement from everyone, rather than personal disputes or attempts to settle old scores.

Talba concluded by reiterating his belief that Maher can succeed with Egypt. He called on supporters and the media to give the coach the backing and time required to demonstrate his abilities and guide the Pharaohs towards a new period of improved performances and results.