Renowned Egyptian football figure, Hossam Hassan, who excelled with both Ahly and Zamalek, as well as representing the Egyptian national team, has voiced his disapproval of Mohamed Salah’s decision to depart the Pharaohs’ camp during the Africa Cup of Nations 2023 to continue his rehabilitation at Liverpool.
In a television interview on MBC Egypt, Hossam Hassan remarked, “Given Mohamed Salah’s immense value, he should have been present with the Egyptian national team both mentally and morally.
His presence would have created a level of concern for competing teams, as he could have been ready to contribute at any moment.”
“If I were the coach of the Egyptian national team, and Salah requested to travel to Liverpool for treatment, I would have advised him to stay there and not return,” Hassan added, emphasizing, “We don’t feel any problem with the absence of Mohamed Salah or Imam Ashour because the Egyptian team has talented players in all positions.”
Hossam Hassan, delving into the ethical aspect of Salah’s decision, expressed, “Mohamed Salah is one of the best players who have achieved success beyond the Egyptian league, but when it comes to the Egyptian national team, there is a moral obligation for any injured player to support the team.
You must be present with the team as if you were part of the coaching staff.”
Addressing the potential return of Mohamed Salah for the final, Hossam Hassan asserted, “Even if we lose the final, Mohamed Salah should not come back.
It is the right of the players who have toiled throughout the tournament.
I speak from the core principles of football and the Egyptian national team – an honor for any player to be part of his country’s national team.”
