Will Mohamed El Shenawy play in the 2026 World Cup for Egypt?

Yes, Egypt's national team director confirmed that player selection is based on performance, not age, indicating El Shenawy remains in contention.

Are players over 30 being excluded from Egypt's World Cup squad?

No, the Egyptian national team director stated that age is not a factor and selections are made solely on form and technical ability.

What is Mohamed El Shenawy's status with the Egypt national team?

Mohamed El Shenawy is an experienced and important goalkeeper for the Egyptian squad, with the technical staff valuing his performance.

Home / Sports / Egypt's World Cup Plans: Age No Barrier for El Shenawy

Egypt's World Cup Plans: Age No Barrier for El Shenawy

21 Jan

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Summary

Rumors of El Shenawy being dropped due to age were denied.
Player selection is based solely on performance, not age.
El Shenawy is a key experienced player for Egypt's squad.

Egypt's World Cup Plans: Age No Barrier for El Shenawy

Recent rumors circulating in Egyptian media suggested that goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy might be excluded from the national team for the upcoming 2026 World Cup due to his age. However, these claims have been categorically dismissed by Egypt's national team director, Ibrahim Hassan.

Hassan clarified that the technical staff has not considered dropping any player based on their age. He stressed that selections are made exclusively based on a player's current form and technical performance. He further stated that discussions about the next phase of World Cup preparations have not yet begun, having just returned from the Africa Cup of Nations.

The director specifically refuted any agreement to drop El Shenawy or other players over 30, excluding Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet, from the World Cup squad. Mohamed El Shenawy, a crucial and experienced goalkeeper for Al Ahly and the national team, has earned 74 caps for Egypt.