Mohamed Barakat: Hossam Hassan’s Departure Was Best; Ali Maher Deserves the Job

Mohamed Barakat said ending Hossam Hassan’s tenure with Egypt was the best outcome for the federation, the national team and the coach, adding that the crises surrounding the recent period made it difficult for him to continue.

Speaking on television, Barakat said disagreements between Hossam Hassan and prominent players, including Ahmed Hegazi and Mohamed El Shenawy, had weakened his relationship with the dressing room. He also felt that leaving out some Zamalek players had angered a section of the club’s supporters, and that statements from Al Ahly followed the El Shenawy dispute, increasing tensions with Al Ahly and Zamalek fans.

Barakat added that Hossam Hassan would remain part of the national team’s history for leading Egypt past the group stage and into the knockout round at the World Cup. However, he said he was saddened by the way Hassan’s tenure had ended and believed he deserved a better ending.

Barakat praised Ali Maher, calling him one of the best coaches in Egypt and saying he plays good attacking football. He expressed hope that Maher would succeed in his role. Barakat added that he wished Maher had taken charge in better circumstances, and said it was good that he would work with his own group, since the coach would be held accountable for the results.