Hossam Hassan: 'Morocco Has a Squad That Could Form Three Full Teams, Yet They Are Affected When Hakimi Is Absent – How Can That Be Compared to Egypt?'

Hossam Hassan, head coach of the Egyptian national team, expressed his displeasure with the intensity of criticism he has faced recently. He asserted that comparing his country's national team to others, especially the Moroccan national team, is illogical given the significant difference in capabilities and player quality.

In media statements, Hossam Hassan said: "Criticize me technically as much as you want, but it is unacceptable to say that the coaching staff lacks vision. Look at the Moroccan national team; they have professional players in various leagues around the world. For example, Brahim Díaz plays for Real Madrid."

He added: "In Egypt, we only have two professional players, or if we want to exaggerate, two and a quarter: Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, and Mostafa Mohamed. In contrast, the Moroccan national team possesses a squad that could form three complete teams in terms of quality and professionalism."

The Egyptian coach emphasized that the difference between the two teams' circumstances is vast: "When a single player like Achraf Hakimi is absent, the Moroccan national team is affected, despite the depth of their squad and the abundance of their professional players. So, how can that be compared to a team whose majority of players rely on the local league and suffer from injuries and a lack of readiness?"

He continued: "In the Africa Cup of Nations, we will face teams that have more than 26 professional players in the leagues of England, Germany, Spain, and France, yet some demand that we achieve the same results despite the differing circumstances."

Hossam Hassan concluded his remarks by stating: "Morocco is an example of a national team with immense capabilities and players spread across the biggest European clubs. Everyone must realize the extent of these differences before passing judgment. We strive and work hard for the national team, but the comparison must be fair."