Egypt returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1990 under Argentinian Hector Cuper’s guidance, but failed to make an impression, losing all three Group A games including Monday’s late defeat by Saudi Arabia. Former Egypt forward Hossam Hassan believes he could be the man to replace Hector Cuper should the federation opt for a change of coach after their underwhelming World Cup display.
“The team has lost its spirit, and that didn’t represent our country with an honourable performance at the World Cup,” Hassan said on Sada El Balad on Monday. “Our defence shouldn’t be confused this easily by the opposition.
“I’m one of the most experienced Egyptian coaches in the country,” he added. “I began my career in 2007 with Al Masry, I took the Jordan national team to the AFC Asian Cup for the second time in their history, and we didn’t lose despite some difficult circumstances. I have enough training experience to lead [Egypt],” he added. “The only thing is that we must show a local coach as much support as we show a foreign coach.”
Hassan, who is Egypt’s all-time top scorer and won three African Cup of Nations tournaments with the Pharaohs, has also managed Cairene giants SC Zamalek twice and had stints with Misr El-Makassa, Al-Ittihad Alexandria and Ismaily. Reports in the Moroccan press suggest that Atlas Lions coach Herve Renard is also being considered by the Egyptian federation as a potential replacement for Cuper.