President of the Egyptian Football Federation, Gamal Allam, has revealed the behind-the-scenes process leading to the appointment of Hossam Hassan as the new head coach of the national team.
Hossam Hassan was recently announced as the new head coach of the Egyptian national team replacing Rui Vitoria after a catastrophic AFCON campaign.
Allam stated on CBC channel: “After returning from Ivory Coast, several sessions were held to select the national team’s coach. We also collaborated with Sports Minister Ashraf Sobhi, who affirmed the state’s support for our national teams, especially the first team needing course correction.
“The current phase necessitates a national coach for Egypt’s team, hence settling on Hossam Hassan.
“Several meetings will be held with Hossam Hassan to devise a plan for the upcoming period, including team camps and all its requirements, to be promptly executed according to the coaching staff’s vision.”
Allam emphasized: “Hossam Hassan, a legend of Egypt’s team, is well-acquainted with Egyptian players. If he requires a fitness coach within his staff, it will be provided.
“Mohamed Salah is a respectful and patriotic player who faced tough circumstances in the Africa Cup of Nations due to injury. He is a true leader for Egypt, both on and off the field.
“Mohamed Salah is a monumental figure and will assist Hossam Hassan during the upcoming tenure with Egypt’s national team.”
READ: Hossam Hassan’s Egypt appointment ‘lifeline’ for Salah, says Mido
The former Al Masry manager’s appointment was heavily criticised by many who believed the Egyptian Football Association should hire another foreign coach.
Hossam Hassan will become the fifth domestic coach to lead the Egyptian national team in the new century after Hassan Shehata, Shawky Gharieb, Hossam El-Badry, and Ehab Galal.
Hassan’s only managerial stint with a national team came in 2013 with Jordan, when he led the team through a historic 2014 World Cup qualifiers, before losing in the final stage against Uruguay in the AFC–CONMEBOL play-off.
Throughout 11 matches with Jordan, Hossam Hassan won four, drew five times, and lost only two matches.