Explanation from the Egyptian National Team Regarding Mohamed Salah's Squad Decision
The Egyptian Football Association announced that Mohamed Salah's exclusion from the squad for the South Sudan match was intended to protect the player against the risk of the artificial turf surface.
Following the removal of Mohamed Salah from the Egyptian National Team's squad for the match against South Sudan, an official response came from the Egyptian Football Association regarding the claims in the press.
Angola Match and Developments
In the Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers, Egypt drew goalless away against Angola, while star football player Mohamed Salah started the match in the starting XI and was substituted in the 61st minute.
Various Claims in the Press
Following the match, various claims were put forward in the Egyptian press suggesting that Salah left the camp due to statements by head coach Hossam Hassan regarding his situation and a tense atmosphere within the team.
Artificial Turf Justification and Federation Statement
In the official statement made by the Egyptian Football Association, it was confirmed that the decision to exclude him from the squad stemmed from the fact that the South Sudan match would be played on an artificial turf surface.
It was officially confirmed that the coaching staff, against the risk of injury, had discussed the matter with Salah before the Angola match and reached an agreement that he would not play in this match.
Head Coach's Evaluation
Egypt's Head Coach Hossam Hassan, in his evaluation after the Angola match, had stated that the player substitution was entirely based on a tactical decision.