Belgium captain Kevin De Bruyne has spoken warmly about his long-standing relationship with Mohamed Salah ahead of a highly anticipated World Cup meeting, while Egypt defender Yasser Ibrahim has tipped Omar Marmoush to emerge as one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
The prospect of Belgium facing Egypt has added another intriguing subplot to the World Cup, with De Bruyne set to renew a rivalry that has spanned more than a decade at the highest level of European football.
Speaking before the encounter, the Belgian playmaker reflected on his friendship with Egypt’s talismanic captain, emphasizing that their connection extends well beyond the football pitch.
“It will be wonderful to see Salah again, as well as Omar Marmoush. I’ve played against Salah for 10 years and it’s great to compete again like in the past,” De Bruyne said.
The midfielder, who recently left Manchester City after a trophy-laden spell, revealed that family ties helped maintain his relationship with Salah throughout their years competing in the English Premier League.
“Our kids went to the same school, so I saw him from time to time. He’s a very nice person and it’s lovely to meet again.”
The comments underline the mutual respect that exists between two of the defining players of their generation. While De Bruyne has been the creative heartbeat of Belgium’s golden era, Mohamed Salah has carried Egypt’s hopes for much of the last decade, becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers through his exploits for both club and country.
Yet inside the Egyptian camp, there is growing belief that the team is no longer solely dependent on Salah’s brilliance.
Defender Yasser Ibrahim praised both Salah and fellow forward Omar Marmoush, describing them as leaders capable of guiding the Pharaohs on the global stage.
“They are big players playing at the highest level. They have the experience and know the responsibility of wearing the national shirt at the World Cup.”
Marmoush, in particular, has become one of the most talked-about players in Egyptian football following his rise in European competition. The versatile attacker has earned widespread recognition for his pace, technical ability and eye for goal, leading many observers to view him as a perfect complement to Salah in attack.
Yasser believes the 27-year-old could become one of the tournament’s biggest revelations.
“In shaa Allah, we will do something great that honors their names and the name of Egypt. Omar Marmoush is going to be the absolute surprise of this tournament, In shaa Allah!”
The optimism reflects a broader confidence within the Egyptian squad as they seek to make a significant impact at the World Cup. While much attention naturally focuses on Salah, the emergence of players such as Marmoush has provided the team with additional attacking options and renewed hope of a deep run in the competition.
For De Bruyne, the reunion offers a chance to reconnect with an old friend. For Egypt, it presents an opportunity to showcase a generation determined to prove it is more than a one-man team.