Hossam Hassan has taken the unusual step of appointing a cassation court lawyer to pursue legal action against television pundits and presenters who criticise his management of the Egypt national team. The move comes as the Pharaohs enjoy their most successful World Cup campaign in history, with the manager simultaneously emphasising his political loyalty to the country’s leadership.
Historic on-field success
Hassan, appointed by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) after the dismissal of Rui Vitória in early 2024, has delivered unprecedented results. Egypt qualified for the tournament unbeaten, collecting 26 points from a possible 30 during the qualification campaign.
The 59-year-old then guided the Pharaohs to their first-ever World Cup victory, a 3-1 triumph over New Zealand that ended 92 years of Egyptian football history without a win at the tournament. The team has since progressed to the knockout stage.
Political alignment and state loyalty
Despite these sporting achievements, Hassan has consistently used his platform to express gratitude and deference to the state. Following the victory over New Zealand, he described a congratulatory message from President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi as “a medal on his chest” with the “effect of magic.”
The manager has repeatedly stated that “success begins from the top of the pyramid and the officials of the state.” He has also indicated that his greatest desired reward is “the chance to meet the president.”
Hassan’s twin brother Ibrahim, who serves as team director, has joined him in these political expressions. In June 2025, the pair issued a statement marking the anniversary of the 30 June protests, calling the event “a symbol of dignity.”
Legal action against media critics
The Hassan twins have moved beyond verbal support for the establishment to actively policing criticism of their management. Hassan appointed a legal spokesperson with authority “to take all necessary legal measures to pursue those who spread rumours.”
In February, the lawyer filed a complaint with the Supreme Council for Media Regulation against a television presenter who had criticised the twins’ management on his personal Facebook page. The complaint alleged that the posts “affected the national team’s management” and requested legal action. The regulator summoned the presenter’s representative for questioning, though no outcome has been announced.
A further complaint was lodged against former Egypt player and current pundit Reda Abdel Aal following a match against Belgium. The filing accused Abdel Aal of attempting to “disturb the security and peace of the country” and interfering with Hassan’s “official national mission.”
Contract uncertainty
Hassan’s position appears secure politically, but his professional status remains ambiguous. He has stated that his contract expired in February 2025, and that he has continued leading the team as “national duty” rather than in a professional capacity. Reports suggest he declined to negotiate a penalty clause for his dismissal upon appointment.
The manager’s approach aligns with the government’s stated expectations. Sports minister Ashraf Sobhy has publicly urged journalists and pundits not to criticise the national team staff, advising them to “have their backs the same way we all have our military and political leadership’s backs.”