Egypt – Hossam Hassan dismissed; Ali Maher appointed head coach

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) officially announced on Saturday 7 November that it has parted ways with Egypt’s national team head coach, Hossam Hassan, and his coaching staff. Ali Maher, the current manager of Ceramica Cleopatra, has been appointed as the head coach for the upcoming period.

In a statement, the EFA affirmed: "Following a meeting of the EFA Board, and after reviewing all the circumstances and events that have unfolded recently, along with their negative impact on the national team’s positive image and stability, the Board has decided to part ways with Hossam Hassan and his technical and administrative staff”.

The EFA expressed its appreciation for the efforts and contributions made by Hossam Hassan during his tenure, wishing him continued success in his future career. Furthermore, the Board has tasked Ali Maher with assuming the role of head coach for the senior national team for the upcoming period and has requested that he present his vision for the composition of the new technical staff.

Hassan, former star and historical top scorer for Egypt led The Pharaohs since February 2024. He guided them to fourth place in the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, and later to reach the round of 16 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup last summer.

Egypt is preparing to face Malawi on November 13 and 17, as part of the third and fourth rounds of the qualifiers for the 2027 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations. The "Pharaohs" currently sit at the top of Group B with 4 points, following a win against South Sudan and a draw with Angola in the first two rounds.