Three options to replace Karim Fouad for Egypt​

Egypt’s coaching staff at the Arab Cup has been dealt a painful blow after versatile full-back Karim Fouad was ruled out through injury.

Team doctor Ayman Zein confirmed Fouad has suffered sprains to the inner ligament of his right knee and to the graft of his cruciate ligament, ending his tournament and forcing coach Helmi Toulan to rethink his plans.​

A source inside the camp told Kooora that tournament rules do not allow Egypt to replace Fouad in the squad, so the solution must come from within the current group. The technical staff is now considering three main scenarios to cover the left side in the remaining decisive matches.​

The first option is to rely on Yahia Zakaria of Ghazl El Mahalla, who started against Kuwait and is expected to feature again versus the UAE. If there is any injury or suspension in this role, Yassin Marai is lined up as the second candidate to fill the position. The third scenario is to shift right-back Ahmed Hani of Ceramica Cleopatra over to left-back to plug the gap.​

Egypt drew 1-1 with Kuwait in their opener in Group C and currently sit second behind Jordan, who beat the UAE 3-1. The Pharaohs now prepare for a crucial clash with the UAE on Saturday, a match that could define their chances of reaching the knockout stages.