Hassan Rejects Speculation Over Salah's Role
Egypt's national team coach Hossam Hassan has firmly dismissed rumours of unrest surrounding star forward Mohamed Salah, insisting that all 26 players in the squad are treated equally and that team decisions are made for the collective good. Speaking to reporters in Vancouver ahead of Egypt's crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against New Zealand, Hassan emphasised that Salah remains a vital and disciplined member of the squad.
Hassan praised Salah's professionalism, leadership, and positive influence on teammates, describing him as a role model. He stressed that substitutions and tactical choices are made solely for the benefit of the national team, and that Salah fully respects those decisions. "Salah is an important player for our squad, and the 26 players who are here with me are very important. Every player who has worked with me knows I deal with them in a professional manner. I do not have favourites," Hassan said.
Salah's Impact on the Pitch
Salah played a key role in Egypt's qualification campaign, scoring nine goals. In Egypt's opening match of the tournament, a 1-1 draw with Belgium in Seattle, Salah provided the assist for Emam Ashour's goal. He was substituted in the 76th minute, making way for teenage forward Hamza Abdelkarim. Hassan confirmed that Salah's substitution was a routine tactical decision and not a sign of discord.
"Salah is a great player who helps his teammates. He has a lot of discipline and is a role model. If he starts or if he gets substituted, it's fine. It is his role as a player. Everyone knows that I am working for the benefit of the team and the national side. Rumours are being spread about stars, about players, about teams. But Salah is someone who is very disciplined," Hassan added.
Group Stage Implications
Egypt's group is finely poised after the first round of matches. While Egypt drew with Belgium, New Zealand also shared the points in a 2-2 draw with Iran in California. Sunday's encounter at BC Place in Vancouver is therefore critical for both sides, as a win would significantly boost their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
Hassan expressed confidence that Salah would continue to have a positive impact in the upcoming match. "He trains with us. He's the first player that would also say yes to my decisions as a technical director. So I think he will be very positive tomorrow," he concluded. The match is set to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams eager to secure their first victory of the tournament.
