Egypt’s preliminary 27-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been officially announced, with Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah confirmed as the team’s captain for the tournament. The news, first reported by BBC Sport, sets the stage for Salah to lead his nation on the global stage for what will be a defining summer in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The 33-year-old forward has been Egypt’s captain since 2019 and boasts a prolific international record of 67 goals in 115 games. His leadership will be under a broader spotlight given the recent confirmation that he is set to leave Liverpool at the end of the season after nine memorable years. This World Cup thus becomes not only a quest for national glory but also a platform for Salah to underline his enduring elite status before embarking on a new club chapter.
Joining Salah in attack is Manchester City’s explosive winger Omar Marmoush, whose pace and trickery could provide a potent one-two punch. A surprise inclusion is uncapped 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim, a product of Barcelona’s academy currently with their Under-19s, signalling coach Hossam Hassan’s willingness to blood young talent. However, the exclusion of Nantes forward Mostafa Mohamed indicates a deliberate choice to prioritize mobility and form over physical presence.
Between the sticks, Al Ahly’s Mohamed El Shenawy remains the first-choice keeper, with Mostafa Shobeir and others providing cover. The defense includes familiar names like Ahmed Fatouh and Mohamed Abdelmonemn, whose experience in Europe (Nice) adds composure. The backline will need to be organized to handle the varied threats in Group G.
The midfield is anchored by Marwan Ateya and Emam Ashour from Al Ahly, with the creative Zizo providing spark. The unit blends industry and flair, essential for controlling games against disciplined opponents. The depth suggests tactical flexibility for coach Hassan.
The squad will be reduced to FIFA’s required 26-player limit after a high-stakes friendly against Russia in Cairo on 28 May. Hossam Hassan will use that match to evaluate final tactical tweaks and fringe players, making it a do-or-die audition for the one to be dropped. The pressure will be immense, but it ensures only the most ready make the final journey.
Following the Russia test, Egypt will face five-time world champions Brazil in a glamour friendly in Cleveland on 6 June. This match is more than a showcase; it will be a litmus test of Egypt’s defensive resilience and ability to create chances against elite opposition. A positive result could be a massive confidence booster.
Drawn in Group G, Egypt’s campaign begins on 15 June against Belgium’s golden generation, a side that despite recent underachievement remains stacked with talent. Next, on 22 June, a potentially pivotal clash against New Zealand, a team known for physicality and organization. The group stage concludes on 27 June against Iran, a fixture that will carry immense political and sporting weight. The path to the knockout rounds is demanding but not impassable.
The 2026 edition is historic, expanding to 48 teams and co-hosted by three nations from 11 June to 19 July. For Egypt, the expanded field and balanced draw offer a genuine opportunity to advance to the latter stages for the first time in their modern history. Salah’s experience and composure in high-stakes moments will be the X-factor.
With the Liverpool chapter closing, Salah heads into the tournament with a point to prove. His scoring prowess and big-game temperament are beyond doubt, but a deep World Cup run would cement his legacy as Egypt’s all-time great and answer any doubts about his ability to lead on the international stage. The captaincy adds another layer of responsibility, one he has embraced since 2019.
Hossam Hassan, a legendary striker for Egypt in his playing days, now channels his fiery passion into management. His tactical ethos emphasizes pace on the counter and defensive solidarity, which suits a squad built around Salah and Marmoush. The friendlies will reveal his masterplan, and the final squad cut will reflect his ruthless pursuit of the best blend.
As the countdown begins, Egyptian fans can keep a close eye on developments. From the Russia friendly to the group stage opener, every decision will be scrutinized. Salah’s captaincy is a given, but the collective performance will dictate Egypt’s fate. Based on reporting from BBC Sport.