The legendary Hossam Hassan, head coach of the Egypt national team, has unveiled a 26-man preliminary squad as the Pharaohs intensify their preparations for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON in Morocco. The seven-time African champions are focused on securing a record eighth title and have structured a preparation camp aimed at blending veteran experience with new, dynamic talent. This preliminary list is expected to be finalized before the CAF deadline, though the current contingent forms the backbone of the squad that will seek continental glory.
The Pharaohs Core: Experience and Stardom
Leading the charge is, inevitably, the nations captain and global icon, Mohamed Salah of Liverpool, who remains the teams most vital attacking threat. He is joined by the core of the foreign-based professionals, including the dynamic winger Omar Marmoush, who returns to the fold having shaken off an injury, and Nantes strong center-forward, Mostafa Mohamed, who provides a crucial focal point in the final third. The midfield boasts the invaluable engine of Hamdy Fathy, currently playing for Al-Wakrah, whose relentless energy and tactical awareness are key to Hassans system, alongside the exciting, attack-minded Ibrahim Adel. The squad also features key domestic stalwarts like the veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy and defensive linchpin Rami Rabia.
Notable Call-Ups and Returns
Hassans selection strategy emphasizes rewarding in-form players and reintegrating key figures. Pyramids FC goalkeeper Ahmed El-Shenawy makes a significant return to the senior squad for the first time since the 2023 AFCON, adding considerable experience to the goalkeeping department alongside Mostafa Shobeir and Mohamed Sobhi. On the defensive flanks, Zamalek left-back Ahmed Fatouh is recalled, signaling his return to full fitness and form after a turbulent period. Further forward, former Al Ahly striker Salah Mohsen, now at Al Masry, earns a call-up, marking his first appearance in the national team setup since a World Cup qualifier back in 2021. The coach has also used this preliminary camp to introduce fresh blood, with Zamalek defender Mohamed Ismail and Ceramica Cleopatra forward Marwan Osman earning their first-ever senior call-ups, highlighting the managers commitment to nurturing Egypts next generation of talent.
Squad Breakdown
The full squad announced by Hossam Hassan for the preparation camp comprises four goalkeepers: Mohamed El-Shenawy, Ahmed El-Shenawy, Mostafa Shobeir, and Mohamed Sobhi. The defensive unit includes Mohamed Hany, Ahmed Fatouh, Rami Rabia, Khaled Sobhi, Hossam Abdelmaguid, Mohamed Hamdy, and Mohamed Ismail. The midfield is packed with talent, featuring Hamdy Fathy, Marwan Attia, Mahmoud Saber, Mohanad Lasheen, Mohamed Shehata, Ahmed Sayed Zizo, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Ibrahim Adel, Marwan Osman, and Mahmoud Zalaka.
Finally, the forward line is spearheaded by Mostafa Mohamed, Omar Marmoush, Mohamed Salah, Osama Faisal, and Salah Mohsen.
AFCON Outlook
The Pharaohs preparation campaign includes a friendly tournament in the UAE where they will face opponents like Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, and Iran, providing a crucial test of their tactical readiness against diverse international styles. Drawn into Group B for the AFCON, Egypt will navigate group stage matches against South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe. The nation expects nothing less than a push for the final, and Hossam Hassans blend of established stars and hungry newcomers will be essential to their quest for an eighth continental crown.
