The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has officially parted ways with head coach Hossam Hassan and appointed Ali Maher as his replacement, ushering in a new chapter for the Pharaohs ahead of their upcoming international assignments.
The decision was announced on Saturday, November 7, following a meeting of the EFA board of directors, which reviewed recent developments surrounding the national team.
In its official statement, the federation said the decision followed an assessment of recent circumstances and events, particularly their negative repercussions on the team’s image and stability.
The EFA thanked Hassan and his technical and administrative staff for their contributions, wishing them success in their future careers.
The development comes as a major surprise, considering that Hassan had his contract extended until 2030 in September following Egypt’s impressive campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Under his leadership, Egypt recorded their first-ever victory at the World Cup, defeating New Zealand 3-1 before progressing to the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
The Pharaohs subsequently defeated Australia on penalties in the Round of 32 before suffering a dramatic 3-2 defeat against eventual opponents Argentina in the Round of 16.
Despite the historic achievement, Hassan’s tenure became increasingly turbulent following a series of controversies and disagreements that attracted considerable public attention.
His departure also brings an end to a 38-match spell in charge of the national team, during which he recorded 21 victories, 10 draws and seven defeats.
Meanwhile, the EFA has entrusted the responsibility of leading the national team to Ali Maher, 52, who arrives after an impressive spell with Egyptian club Ceramica Cleopatra.
Maher guided Ceramica Cleopatra to the 2024/25 Egyptian League Cup title and established himself as one of the country’s respected domestic coaches.
The new manager has been tasked with presenting his proposed technical staff to the federation’s board for approval as he begins preparations for the next phase.
His immediate assignment will be Egypt’s two-legged 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying encounter against Malawi on November 13 and 17.
Egypt currently lead Group B with four points from their opening two matches, following a goalless draw against Angola and a convincing 5-0 victory over South Sudan.
With the coaching change coming just days before the next international fixtures, Maher faces the immediate challenge of maintaining Egypt’s momentum while building his own technical identity.
The appointment marks the beginning of a new era for the Pharaohs, with expectations high as the North African giants seek to maintain their competitiveness on the continental and international stage.
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