Egypt's national football team have entered a new chapter under head coach Ali Maher, who has replaced Hossam Hassan.

The change has raised questions about the team's future and Maher's relationship with captain Mohamed Salah, especially with two important matches against Malawi approaching in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Shortly after Maher took charge, Mohamed Salah, the Egypt captain and Trabzonspor player, reportedly called the new coach to congratulate him on his appointment and wish him success in his new role.

The phone call came at an important time for Egypt, as the national team look to move forward following Hassan's departure.

Supporters are now waiting to see how Maher will work with Salah and whether the new coaching staff can bring stability ahead of the upcoming competitive matches.

Salah's Role in Ali Maher's New Project

Ali Maher made his opinion of Mohamed Salah clear, describing the Egyptian captain as one of the most important players in the country's football history.

The new head coach called Salah the greatest player Egypt has produced and explained that his influence goes beyond his performances on the pitch.

Maher believes Salah has become a global name who represents Egyptian football around the world.

He also sees the forward as a role model for younger players.

These comments show how highly Maher values the national team captain and suggest that he wants to make full use of Salah's experience and leadership.

The new coach understands that Egypt need their most experienced players to work together if they want to achieve their goals in the coming months.

Maher also showed respect for the previous coaching staff, thanking Hossam Hassan and his brother Ibrahim Hassan for their efforts during their time with the national team.

He explained that his aim is to continue the work started by his predecessors and build on the progress Egypt have already made.

The coach also called on supporters and the media to stand behind the national team, stressing that a positive environment will help the players remain focused and perform at their best.

Maher said he was proud to have developed his coaching career in the Egyptian Premier League before being given the opportunity to manage the national team.

He believes Egyptian football has several talented local coaches who are capable of taking responsibility and delivering strong results.

Speaking about his new coaching staff, Maher revealed that the Egyptian Football Association had given him the freedom to select his assistants.

He explained that his decisions were based on ability, experience and the contribution each person could make, rather than personal relationships.

According to Maher, every member of the coaching team must have a clear responsibility and be capable of making a positive difference.

He also explained why he decided against appointing a team manager as part of his staff.

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Maher said he prefers to communicate directly with Egyptian Football Association officials instead of having another person act as a link between them.

He added that EFA president Hany Abo Rida understood his position, allowing him to organize the coaching structure according to his preferred working methods.

Upcoming Challenges and Hossam Hassan's Record

Ali Maher begins his new job at a crucial point in Egypt's campaign, with matches against Malawi scheduled for November 13 and 17, 2026.

The games are part of the third and fourth rounds of qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

They will be the first competitive tests for Maher and his coaching staff, as Egypt aim to collect important points and move closer to securing a place at the continental tournament.

The timing of the coaching change adds another challenge, with Maher needing to assess his players quickly and decide on the best tactical approach.

At the same time, he must maintain stability within the squad and ensure that the players are ready for the upcoming fixtures.

Maher takes over after Hossam Hassan's spell in charge, which began in February 2024.

According to the figures reported, Hassan managed Egypt in 38 matches, recording 21 wins, 10 draws and seven defeats.

During those games, Egypt scored 64 goals and conceded 33.

His time in charge also included reaching the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the semifinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

These achievements provide a foundation for the new coaching staff, who will be expected to maintain the team's progress and compete for major titles.

Despite replacing Hassan, Maher has chosen to begin his tenure by showing respect for the previous management rather than focusing on disagreements or comparisons.

His main message has been about unity, teamwork and the importance of everyone supporting the national team.

Salah's phone call also offers an encouraging start to the relationship between Egypt's captain and the new head coach.

Maher's praise for the forward suggests that Salah will remain a central figure in the team's plans, both as a player and as a leader.

However, a positive start away from the pitch will need to be followed by strong performances and results.

Maher now faces the challenge of turning the support surrounding his appointment into success in competitive matches.

With Salah's experience, a new coaching structure and high expectations from supporters, Egypt are entering a period that brings both opportunities and pressure.

The biggest question is whether Maher can make the most of the talent available, build on the achievements of the previous coaching staff and guide Egypt toward the success their supporters expect in the years ahead.