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.

  Latest News

  Al Ahly Beat Zamalek in Egyptian Handball Derby to Claim Club World BronzeAnger or Artificial Turf? Salah’s Egypt Camp Exit Raises Questions Amid Reports He Could Miss South Africa

• 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.