Egypt boss reacts to Salah rift talk after subbing Liverpool icon vs Belgium

Belgium v Egypt: Group G - FIFA World Cup 2026

Egypt manager Hossam Hassan has moved quickly to dismiss rumours of a rift with captain Mohamed Salah after substituting the former Liverpool superstar during their opening 2026 World Cup fixture against Belgium. Salah was surprisingly taken off in the 76th minute with the match tied at 1-1, prompting widespread speculation of a fallout between the talisman and his coach.

Substitution sparks speculation

Salah had already provided an assist for Emam Ashour before being replaced by highly rated Barcelona teenager Hamza Abdelkarim in the 76th minute. With the game finely poised at 1-1, removing the national side's talisman and captain seemed like a bold gamble by Hassan. However, the Egypt coach firmly denied any talk of issues within the squad as they prepare to face New Zealand in their second group game. He insisted that all 26 players are treated equally and professionally.

Belgium v Egypt: Group G - FIFA World Cup 2026

Coach denies favouritism claims

Addressing the media, Hassan explained his stance and praised his captain's character. He said: "Salah is an important player for our squad, and the 26 players who are here with me are ⁠very important. Every player who has worked with me knows I ​deal ⁠with them in a professional manner. ‌I do not have favourites. Salah is a great player who helps his teammates. He has a lot of discipline and is a role model. If he starts or ‌if he gets substituted, it's fine. It is ‌his role as a player. Everyone knows that I am working for the benefit of the team and the national side."

Shutting down the rumour mill

The manager continued to defend his decisions, making it abundantly clear that the squad remains united amid external noise. He stated: "Rumours are being spread about stars, about players, about teams. But Salah is someone who is very disciplined. He trains with us. He's the first player that would also say yes to my decisions as a technical director. So I think he will be very positive tomorrow." Salah scored nine goals during the qualification stages, helping his nation reach the finals for the fourth time. Now, they are desperately hunting for their maiden victory on football's biggest stage.

Belgium v Egypt: Group G - FIFA World Cup 2026

What is next for Egypt?

After Group G's opening games ended in draws, the standings hang in the balance. Egypt face New Zealand next, aiming for a historic win. Hassan concluded: "We drew in the first ⁠match and we want to win and secure these points. This is our ambition for tomorrow, this ‌is the ambition of ​the Egyptian people, for Egyptian football and ‌for African football as well. We are ​representing all of these people and we really hope to perform."