Egypt Sack Controversial Head Coach Hossam Hassan

What the report says

Egypt’s football federation has dismissed national team coach Hossam Hassan, ending a tenure that combined notable on-field success with growing off-field controversy. According to Nile Post, the Egyptian Football Association announced the decision on Saturday, November 7, after a board meeting that reviewed recent events and their effect on the team’s image and stability. The federation also parted ways with Hassan’s technical and administrative staff and named Ali Maher as his successor.

Hassan, one of Egypt’s best-known football figures, took charge in March 2024 and initially delivered strong results. Under his leadership, Egypt reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and advanced to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the country’s best run in the tournament. His success led to a contract extension until 2030 in September.

The reported issues that followed the World Cup included Hassan’s angry criticism of refereeing after Egypt’s 3-2 loss to Argentina, when his team surrendered a two-goal lead. FIFA later suspended him for three matches over his comments, while his brother Ibrahim and player Zico also received bans. Nile Post also noted criticism over his handling of Mohamed Salah, as well as a separate media and personal-life controversy in Egypt that drew regulatory attention.

Hassan leaves after 38 matches in charge, with 21 wins, 10 draws and seven defeats. Maher now takes over as Egypt prepare for Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Malawi.