Egyptians divided over rift between Salah and Hossam Hassan
As it stands now, all is not well with the Egyptian football following a tussle that evolved between Egyptian star man Mohamed Salah and newly appointed Coach Hossam Hassan.
The rift dates back during the last AFCON in Ivory Coast when the Egyptian captain sustained a hamstring injury against Ghana. It was announced that Salah will return to his club Liverpool to regain full fitness and come back for the remaining matches in the continental showpiece.
Speaking on a television at that time even before his appointment, Hassan said Salah should not be allowed to return to the national team. The all time Egyptian topscorer explained it will be very unfair to the other members of the squad.
“Stay there in Liverpool until you have fully recovered, may God with you”. Hassan said. “Back here we have the men to do the job”. The Pharoahs after 3 draws in the group stages went into last 16 before been eliminated by DR Congo on penalties. This led to the appointment of Hossam Hassan after Rui Vitoria was shown the exit.
Mohamed Salah went on his X handle to thank the Portuguese Manager for his service as Egyptian Boss. In another twist, the Liverpool talisman did not acknowledge the appointment of his compatriot let alone congratulate him for his ascension to the Egyptian top job.
Salah’s action made some top Egyptian journalist to speculate that there seems to be a rift between the two. Experts who are familiar with the story have said Salah have never spoken to Hossam Hassan since the latter was appointed as Egypt Manager.
During last week’s international break, Mohamed Salah didn’t appear in the Pharoahs team that played two friendlies against New Zealand and Croatia as they won against the former and lost against the latter.
Speaking to reporters after Egypt 4:2 loss to Croatia, Hassan acknowledged the absence of some key players led to their defeat as he failed to mention Salah.
The rift has made a lot of Egyptians divided as majority side with the Liverpool talisman based on his performance for club and country as he almost single handedly led them to 2018 World Cup after 28 years of absence and playing in two AFCON as they eventually lost on those occasions.
Some experts contend the rift will not leave anytime soon due to the Manager’s fiery temper and pride. Besides, Hossam Hassan has been a Manager that top journalists are questioning his Managerial credentials as they contend he has long standing for enthusiasm and energy but short of tactics.
Story By: Awal Mohammed
