Egypt national team manager Hossam Hassan has explained Mohamed Salah’s absence from the upcoming match against South Sudan, confirming that the player is expected to be ready for the next fixtures.
Hassan explained that Salah was concerned about possible physical contact and that his club doctor advised him not to play on an artificial-turf pitch in order to protect his safety.
Hossam Hassan Explains Mohamed Salah's Absence
Speaking at the press conference ahead of Egypt’s match against South Sudan, Hossam Hassan discussed Mohamed Salah’s condition and the decision to leave him out of the squad for the game.
The Egypt manager said Salah had been concerned about excessive physical contact since his time in Turkey. He added that the player’s doctor had advised him to avoid playing on an artificial-turf pitch as a precaution.
Hassan also stressed that he agreed with the decision because of Salah’s importance to Egyptian football and the national team, explaining that he did not want the player to participate while feeling concerned about his physical safety.
Mohamed Salah's Situation With Egypt
Hossam Hassan confirmed that Mohamed Salah’s absence from the South Sudan match does not mean he will be unavailable for Egypt’s upcoming games.
The manager said Salah should be ready to return, starting with the next international friendly.
The decision reflects the coaching staff’s approach to protecting the player ahead of Egypt’s upcoming international commitments.
Egypt vs South Sudan Match Details
Egypt will face South Sudan on Tuesday, September 29, in the second round of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 4:00 p.m. Cairo time as Egypt continues its campaign in the continental qualifiers.
Egypt's Next Match Against South Africa
Egypt are also scheduled to face South Africa in an international friendly during the current international break.
The match will take place on October 4 at Cairo International Stadium, and it could mark Mohamed Salah’s return to the Egypt squad, according to Hossam Hassan’s comments.
Why is Mohamed Salah missing the South Sudan match?
Salah is absent because of concerns about playing on an artificial-turf pitch and advice from his club doctor to protect his safety.
Will Mohamed Salah play in Egypt's upcoming matches?
Hossam Hassan confirmed that Salah is expected to be ready for the upcoming fixtures.
When could Mohamed Salah return to Egypt's lineup?
Hossam Hassan indicated that Salah could return starting with the next international friendly.
When is Egypt vs South Sudan?
The match is scheduled for Tuesday, September 29, at 4:00 p.m. Cairo time.
When will Egypt face South Africa?
Egypt are scheduled to face South Africa in an international friendly on October 4 at Cairo International Stadium.
