Mohamed Salah Leads Egypt’s Squad for 2026 World Cup as Hossam Hassan Names Final Selection

Mohamed Salah will captain Egypt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America next month after coach Hossam Hassan confirmed the national squad on Saturday, with the Liverpool star once again central to the Pharaohs’ hopes on the global stage.

The final selection contained few major surprises, although the inclusion of 18-year-old forward Hamza Abdel Karim drew attention. The young striker, currently on loan from Al Ahly to Barcelona Atlètic, the reserve side of the Spanish champions, is seen as one of Egypt’s most promising emerging talents.

Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush is also expected to play a key role in attack. He arrives at the tournament following a season in which he scored eight goals in 36 appearances for the Premier League club, and is widely viewed as Egypt’s second major offensive threat alongside Salah.

Egypt have been drawn into Group G, where they will open their World Cup campaign against Belgium on June 15 in Seattle. They will also face New Zealand and Iran in what is expected to be a competitive group stage.

Before heading to North America, Egypt will play their final warm-up match against Brazil on June 6 in Ohio, providing a final test against one of the tournament favourites.

Coach Hossam Hassan’s squad blends experienced internationals with domestic and Europe-based talent across all departments. In goal, Egypt have selected Mohamed El-Shenawy and Mostafa Shobeir of Al Ahly, El-Mahdi Soliman of Zamalek, and Mohamed Alaa of El Gouna.

The defensive line includes Mohamed Abdelmonem of Nice, Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, and Karim Hafez among others, with representation from Al Ahly, Zamalek, Pyramids, and clubs abroad. The midfield features a mix of senior figures such as Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” and Emam Ashour alongside Europe-based players including Haitham Hassan of Real Oviedo.

Salah headlines the midfield group despite often operating in a more advanced attacking role at club level. His leadership and experience are expected to be crucial for Egypt as they aim to progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their World Cup history.

The forward line is completed by Omar Marmoush and Hamza Abdel Karim, offering both experience and youth in Egypt’s attacking options.

Egypt arrive at the tournament seeking to improve on previous World Cup performances and advance deeper into the knockout stages. With Salah leading a balanced squad, expectations remain high as the team prepares for its opening challenge against Belgium.