.png)
Haissem Hassan: Why Is Egypt's World Cup Breakout Star Still at Real Oviedo?
Not long ago, Haissem Hassan looked destined for a major transfer.
The Egyptian winger emerged as one of the revelations of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, producing a series of impressive performances and playing a key role in Egypt's historic campaign, particularly against Argentina. His pace, dribbling ability and confidence suggested that a move to a bigger club was only a matter of time.
Instead, the weeks following the tournament have produced more rumours than concrete progress.
A Summer Full of Rumours
Hassan has been linked with Scottish giants Celtic, while Turkish clubs were also reported to be interested. More recently, Spanish media claimed Saudi Pro League clubs had entered the race with lucrative offers, while other reports suggested the player prefers to continue his career in Europe despite the financial incentives.
Despite all the speculation, one fact remains unchanged: Haissem Hassan is still a Real Oviedo player.
Real Oviedo are understood to be open to selling the Egyptian winger if the right offer arrives. However, the situation is not straightforward. The club must balance its financial needs with the fact that Villarreal are reportedly entitled to 40 percent of any future transfer profit, making it difficult to accept a lower bid.
.jpeg)
Europe or Saudi Arabia?
For Hassan himself, the decision may be career-defining.
At 24, he has reached an age where his next move could shape the rest of his career. A transfer to Saudi Arabia would offer financial security, while remaining in Europe could provide a better platform to build on the reputation he earned during the World Cup.
That balancing act may explain why no agreement has yet been reached despite interest from several clubs.
Returning to Real Oviedo for preseason should not necessarily be viewed as a setback. It may simply represent a temporary pause while the right opportunity develops before the transfer window closes.
After announcing himself on one of football's biggest stages, Hassan's biggest challenge is no longer proving his quality. It is finding the club that best matches both his ambitions and his long-term development.
For now, Egypt's World Cup breakout star remains at Real Oviedo—but with weeks still left in the transfer window, his story may only be beginning.