Brother defends Egypt coach amid health and media storm

Egypt's team manager, Ibrahim Hassan, has broken his silence to defend his brother, head coach Hossam Hassan, against mounting criticism. Ibrahim disclosed significant personal and health struggles his brother has endured for the national team. He questioned why certain media figures and former colleagues are attacking them, urging them to "Fear God when it comes to Egypt" and to consider the joy Hossam Hassan has brought to the nation.

Ibrahim highlighted Hossam Hassan's sacrifices and devotion to Egypt, despite facing personal challenges. He directly addressed former colleagues and media personalities, questioning their resentment and the constant belittling of successes. He also advised aspiring coaches that the current project's success is their path to opportunities, rather than wishing for failure.

The most striking revelation detailed Hossam Hassan's near-fatal health battles. Ibrahim shared that his brother suffered multiple angina attacks during camps and matches, requiring electric shocks and urgent stent placements. He further revealed that a subsequent surgery was life-threatening, with doctors initially unsure of his survival due to the complexity of the heart artery operation.

Despite his post-surgery condition, Hossam Hassan insisted on appearing on the touchline during a match against Brazil to maintain team morale. Ibrahim emphasized that these critical health details were known only to a few close individuals. He vowed that these sacrifices would not deter them from continuing their work with the national team, stating that "Egypt deserves this sacrifice."

The Egyptian Football Association has issued a statement calling for calm and solidarity, urging the media and public to avoid escalating tensions that could impact team preparations. Both Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan are suspended for three matches, affecting their presence during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Malawi. Egypt currently leads their qualifying group.