Ankara: Egypt national football team coach Hossam Hassan declared his unwavering support for Palestine and expressed optimism about Mohamed Salah's future success at Turkish club Trabzonspor. Hassan shared these sentiments during an exclusive interview with Anadolu, following a ceremony in Cairo where Turkish Ambassador to Egypt, Salih Mutlu Sen, honored him with a commemorative shield.
According to Anadolu Agency, the honor recognized Hassan's vocal support for the Palestinian cause and his achievements as the coach of Egypt's national team during the recent World Cup. Hassan reiterated his commitment by stating his willingness to continue advocating for Palestine. He proudly recounted raising the Palestinian flag as a symbol of solidarity, asserting that his actions were rooted in humanitarian principles and aimed at drawing global attention to the Palestinian plight.
Hassan's gestures, including dedicating Egypt's historic advancement to the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup to Palestine, have evoked significant responses. During the celebration of Egypt's return, he waved the Palestinian flag from an open-top bus, a move that sparked widespread reactions online and criticism from Israeli authorities. In Gaza, his support was immortalized by Palestinian artist Ubay al-Qurshali, who painted a portrait of Hassan on the rubble of a destroyed home, with flags of Palestine and Egypt in the backdrop.
This comes amid ongoing turmoil in the Gaza Strip, where Israel's actions since October 2023 have resulted in severe casualties and widespread destruction, despite a ceasefire agreement in 2025. Hassan's comments resonate amid these circumstances, highlighting his humanitarian stance.
On the football front, Hassan expressed enthusiasm for Salah's transition to Trabzonspor, praising the Egyptian captain as a prominent figure whose presence would enhance both his career and the Turkish league. Salah's recent signing with Trabzonspor as a free agent marks a new chapter after his successful tenure at Liverpool. Hassan anticipates that Salah will continue to excel and make a significant impact in Turkey, reflecting his enduring commitment to the national team.
Hassan also conveyed his admiration for Turkey, drawing parallels between the Turkish and Egyptian people and expressing his fondness for the country's rich heritage. Since assuming the role of Egypt's coach in 2024, Hassan has led the team to its best-ever World Cup performance, marking a significant milestone in Egyptian football history.