Mohamed Salah’s national team manager said that the Egyptian deserves to taste glory in the Africa Cup of Nations.
Liverpool forward Salah has arguably been the best soccer player in the world this season, and was the favorite to claim the 2025 Ballon d’Or prior to the Reds’ Champions League exit last week.
Salah has won every honor available as a Liverpool player but international success has eluded him throughout his career. The 32-year-old finished as a runner-up at the AFCON in both 2017 and 2021, and Egypt manager Hossam Hassan is hopeful that Salah will get his hands on the trophy next year.
“It’s time for Salah to lift the AFCON trophy, he deserves it,” Hassan said ahead of Egypt’s World Cup qualifiers against Ethiopia and Sierra Leone. “The competition will be tough, but we have what it takes to win.
“Mo is an outstanding player, and having him with us is incredible. He leads by example, and the whole team, under his leadership, is committed to achieving the hopes and dreams of Egyptian fans.”
Hassan added: “Having both Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush performing at the highest level in world football gives Egypt tremendous strength. Of course, they will face immense pressure at AFCON, but they have gained the experience and maturity to handle it.”
Hassan was asked for his take on Salah’s contract situation at Liverpool and offered his support to the forward: “I will support Salah in whatever path he chooses. I know it’s not an easy situation, but he is an incredible player and will handle it well. I wish him success wherever he goes, he is a great representative for Egypt and Egyptians.”
Salah is closing in on Hassan’s all-time top scorer record for Egypt, with 57 to his manager’s 68, and the Egypt boss is willing the Liverpool star to overtake him: “I wish him all the best in surpassing my record, it only benefits the national team. The more he achieves, the better for Egypt, and that makes me happy.”
