Egypt boss Hassan seeks to ease Salah tensions ahead of South Sudan qualifier

CAIRO: Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan has attempted to quell concerns over Mohamed Salah's status within the national team following his absence from Tuesday's Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Sudan. The omission has sparked debates in local media, with speculation escalating after Hassan stated the substitution was for technical reasons, despite Salah's impressive form since joining Trabzonspor from Liverpool.

Local reports also hinted at a possible connection to Hassan's earlier comments about senior players, including goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who he once described as "finished," raising questions about the team's morale. However, Hassan took a calming approach ahead of the match in Juba, emphasizing Salah's significance to Egypt's plans.

He affirmed, "I respect all the players, especially Mohamed Salah. He is an important and influential player, one of the team's key pillars, a great player and a vital member of the team, as well as one of the best players in the world." Hassan clarified that Salah's absence against South Sudan was mutually agreed upon due to concerns about the artificial playing surface.

He reiterated his priority for Salah's well-being and expressed confidence in all the players. Egypt aims to secure their first win of the qualifying campaign, with the ultimate goal of reaching the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.