Prominent sports commentator Hani Hathout revealed new developments within the Egyptian Football Association regarding the decision to part ways with Portuguese coach Rui Vitória, following the national team’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations in the Round of 16 against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Speaking on the “Al-Match” program on Sada Al-Balad channel, Hathout disclosed that the Football Association’s board is intensifying negotiations to convince Vitória to waive a portion of the $750,000 penalty stipulated in the contract between the parties, following the unilateral decision of the Football Association to terminate the contract.
Hathout pointed out that in tomorrow’s meeting, the Football Association will propose to Vitória the option of spreading the penalty payment for his departure from coaching the Egyptian national team.
He emphasized that Vitória’s departure is not a solution to the crisis of uplifting Egyptian sports.
Hathout further commented that the new coach of the Egyptian national team will face a challenge after Vitória’s departure due to the team’s participation in the upcoming friendly tournament in the United Arab Emirates.
The new coach will have limited knowledge of the capabilities of the participating players.
Regarding the potential candidates, Hathout clarified that Hossam Hassan, the current coach of Modern Future Club, is not considered a candidate if the Football Association decides to appoint an Egyptian coach instead of a foreign one.
He affirmed that Ali Maher is a strong candidate for coaching the Egyptian national team, given his achievements with the clubs he has previously managed.
