Egypt second team director: ‘Some players show no interest to join the team’

Ahmed Hassan, the team director of Egypt’s squad for the 2025 Arab Cup, has revealed how several players reacted to being contacted for the tournament — including Zamalek star Abdallah El-Said.

Egypt will participate in the Arab Cup, scheduled to be held in Qatar in December 2025, with the second national team led by Helmy Toulan. The first team, coached by Hossam Hassan, will simultaneously compete in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from December 21 to January 18.

Speaking to Al-Mehwar TV, Ahmed Hassan clarified that his previous statements about player call-ups had been misquoted.
He said: “My comments about the selection process were taken out of context. A journalist asked me about Ahmed Hegazi, and I explained that he will not be with us. We contacted him earlier, and he expressed his desire to focus on his new club. We fully respected his decision.”

Hassan then discussed other players’ responses:
“Abdallah El-Said told us he would join the team directly in the Arab Cup but could not attend the training camps beforehand due to match congestion. That is unacceptable for us.”

He continued: “I spoke with Mohamed Elneny, and he said he is available for the team whenever we need him. Emam Ashour also expressed his willingness to join if his circumstances allow, and of course, the priority is always with the first national team coached by Hossam Hassan.”

Hassan pointed out that attitudes vary among players:
“There are players who take the initiative and show a strong desire to represent the national team, while others — including some at big clubs in Egypt — show no interest when asked. I prefer not to mention names.”

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