Mohamed Salah can rediscover his best form and remind the football world of his enduring class at the Africa Cup of Nations, according to Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan, who insists the Liverpool forward’s morale is “higher than ever” despite recent controversy at club level.
Speaking ahead of Egypt’s opening AFCON fixture against Zimbabwe in Agadir, Hassan portrayed a captain rejuvenated, focused, and eager to lead his country, as Egypt seek to reclaim continental glory for the first time since 2010.
A Captain Re-energised on the International Stage
Hossam Hassan described Mohamed Salah’s attitude in camp as strikingly youthful, likening his energy to that of a teenager attending his first national-team training. According to the Egypt coach, Salah has embraced preparations with enthusiasm and commitment, dispelling any notion that age or recent criticism has dulled his edge.
The 33-year-old forward, widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest modern footballers, has been a central figure in Egypt’s sessions in Morocco. Hassan stressed that Salah’s presence has lifted the squad, both technically and psychologically, as the team prepares for a demanding tournament.
“He trains as if he is just starting his journey with the national team,” Hassan said, adding that such hunger is a powerful sign ahead of a major competition. The coach expressed firm belief that Salah will be among the standout performers of the tournament.
Addressing the Liverpool Controversy
Salah arrived at AFCON following a turbulent period at Liverpool, where his public comments about the club and head coach Arne Slot drew criticism. The remarks, made a fortnight ago, sparked widespread debate before Salah issued an apology to calm tensions.
Hassan, however, downplayed the situation, refusing to label it a crisis. He emphasised that disagreements between players and coaches are part of professional football and should not overshadow a player’s overall character or ability.
“There was constant communication with Mohamed,” Hassan explained. “Any player can have a difference of opinion with his coach at club level.” The Egypt manager suggested that the matter has been resolved and has not affected Salah’s mindset heading into AFCON.
A Familiar Pattern of Redemption
Drawing on past experience, Hassan noted that Salah has previously used international duty as a platform to revive his form. He recalled periods when the forward struggled for goals at Liverpool, only to rediscover confidence and rhythm with the national team.
In those instances, Hassan said, Salah returned to club football at an even higher level than before. The coach believes history could repeat itself, with AFCON serving as a catalyst for another resurgence.
This confidence is shared within the Egypt camp, where Salah’s leadership and work rate in training have reinforced belief that he remains capable of influencing games at the highest level.
Egypt’s Hopes and Heavy Expectations
Egypt enter the tournament as second favourites, behind hosts Morocco, with Salah and Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush leading the attacking line. The pairing is expected to carry much of the creative and scoring burden as the Pharaohs aim for a deep run.
The weight of history looms large. Egypt are the most successful nation in AFCON history, having won the competition seven times, including an unprecedented hat-trick between 2006 and 2010. Yet success has eluded them during the so-called “Salah era.”
Despite reaching two finals under Salah’s captaincy, Egypt fell short on both occasions. This tournament may represent one of the final opportunities for the talismanic forward to lift the trophy that has long escaped him.
Salah:Legacy, Pressure, and a Final Push for Glory
For Salah, this Africa Cup of Nations carries added significance. With his career entering its later stages, the tournament could define his international legacy, transforming near-misses into ultimate triumph.
Hassan was clear in his assessment, calling Salah an icon and “one of the best players in the world,” not only for Egypt but for global football. Such praise reflects the immense faith placed in the captain to lead by example.
As Egypt prepare to begin their campaign against Zimbabwe, the focus is firmly on performance rather than past disputes. If Mohamed’s morale and form match his coach’s optimism, AFCON may yet become the stage where he rediscovers his old magic and finally crowns his international career with continental success.
