Egypt sack coach Hossam Hassan after series of controversies

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has dismissed national team coach Hossam Hassan, according to a statement released on Saturday. The EFA explained that their decision was based on concerns over the image and stability of the national side following various controversies. Hassan, who previously led Egypt to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations and a fourth-place finish in the 2026 World Cup, was succeeded by Ali Maher, who is currently managing club side Ceramica Cleopatra.

EFA sources revealed that Hassan's personal issues had caused significant tension within the team. Just three days prior to the dismissal, Egypt's Supreme Council for Media Regulation had banned Hassan from appearing on media platforms due to a case linked to his private life and former wife, Dina Mostafa, also known as Dan Adam. Lawyers representing Hassan had filed allegations of forgery and bigamy against her, which were denied by her representatives.

Hassan's tenure as coach had already been under scrutiny following Egypt's impressive performance in the 2026 World Cup, where the team reached the last 16 for the first time. Former Egypt attacker Mido had expressed concerns about the situation going "out of control" in September, calling for officials to intervene. Maher is set to take charge ahead of Egypt's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Malawi on November 13 and 17.