CAIRO. Egypt have dismissed national team coach Hossam Hassan and appointed Ali Maher, bringing an abrupt end to a tenure marked by historic achievements and growing controversy.
The Egyptian Football Association confirmed the decision on Saturday, November 7, just six days before the Pharaohs face Malawi in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Maher, 52, leaves Egyptian Premier League side Ceramica Cleopatra to take charge of the seven-time African champions, with immediate responsibility for the November international window.
The association thanked Hassan for his contribution to Egyptian football, despite deciding to change leadership during preparations for the continental tournament in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.
The decision is particularly striking because Hassan had guided Egypt to the 2026 Fifa World Cup, ending a 28-year absence from the global tournament.
Egypt subsequently reached the Round of 16 for the first time, strengthening Hassan’s reputation and earning him a contract extension until 2030.
However, the achievements were overshadowed by controversies involving the technical bench, disagreements within the national team and developments outside football.
Controversy overshadows progress
Hassan’s position became increasingly uncertain after Fifa imposed a three-match suspension following incidents surrounding Egypt’s World Cup Round of 16 encounter against Argentina.
The suspension also affected his twin brother Ibrahim Hassan, who served in the national team’s technical management.
Further pressure followed reports of disagreements between Hassan and Egypt captain Mohamed Salah during the October international window.
Egyptian media also reported a public dispute involving Hassan and his former wife, prompting intervention by the country’s Supreme Council for Media Regulation.
The regulator subsequently barred Hassan from media appearances following concerns about the public discussion of private matters.
Although the football association had initially appealed for calm and unity, speculation about Hassan’s future intensified throughout the week.
His dismissal came despite being shortlisted for the 2026 Caf Awards, reflecting the contrast between his sporting achievements and the circumstances surrounding his departure.
Maher faces immediate test
Maher arrives with a growing reputation in Egyptian domestic football, having guided Ceramica Cleopatra to the 2024/25 Egyptian League Cup title.
He also led the club to fourth place in the Egyptian Premier League last season, strengthening his credentials for the national team assignment.
His first challenge comes against Malawi, with Egypt scheduled to play two crucial qualifiers on November 13 and 17.
The Pharaohs currently lead Group B with four points after opening their campaign with a goalless draw against Angola and a commanding 5-0 victory over South Sudan.
Maher will therefore inherit a side in a promising qualifying position, although the timing of the coaching change leaves limited preparation time before the Malawi double-header.
East Africa awaits
Egypt’s decision carries significance beyond Cairo as Africa’s most successful national team prepares for the 2027 Afcon finals.
The Pharaohs have won the continental championship a record seven times, although their last triumph came in Angola in 2010.
Qualifying for the tournament co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania will be the immediate priority for Maher, before attention turns to restoring Egypt’s continental dominance.