As Egypt prepares for a high-stakes friendly against Saudi Arabia this Friday, manager Hossam Hassan is fine-tuning his squad to address the void left by injured captain Mohamed Salah. The match serves as a vital rehearsal for the 2026 World Cup journey.

Key Squad Insights:

• Goalkeeping Dilemma: A tough choice between veteran Mohamed El Shenawy and the rising star Mostafa Shobeir, with El Shenawy currently tipped to start.

• The New Face: All eyes are on La Liga’s Haitham Hassan, who is expected to make his international debut, filling the gap on the right wing alongside Europe-based stars Marmoush and Trezeguet.

• Defensive Stability: The coaching staff is likely to rely on the partnership of Rami Rabia and Hossam Abdelmaguid to anchor the defense.

Egypt’s Projected XI:

• Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy.

• Defense: Mohamed Hany, Rami Rabia, Hossam Abdelmaguid, Ahmed Fatouh.

• Midfield: Marwan Attia, Hamdi Fathi, Emam Ashour.

• Attack: Mahmoud Trezeguet, Omar Marmoush, Haitham Hassan.