Ahmed Hegazi has quit Egypt’s international camp after falling out with head coach Hossam Hassan after not playing against Cape Verde.
Following Mohamed Abdelmonem’s absence, Hossam Hassan chose midfielder Hamdi Fathi to partner Rami Rabia in the defensive line despite the presence of Ahmed Hegazi and Ahmed Ramadan in the squad.
Cameras captured Hegazi refusing Hossam Hassan’s request to come on in the final minutes of the game after Rabia picked up an injury, which led the manager to bring on Ahmed Ramadan instead.
The 33-year-old was also seen reacting angrily toward someone on the bench, with attempts by the coaching staff and players to calm him down.
Less than 24 hours after the incident, Hassan had decided to exclude Hegazi from the camp ahead of the upcoming game against Botswana on September 10.
Hegazi took to Twitter his frustration, saying: “I was excluded from the Egypt national team camp by the coach, and I did not withdraw or apologize for not continuing.
“Regarding yesterday’s match, I also did not refuse to play. The argument was a reaction to something said by one of the assistant coaches, in front of everyone.
“Over 13 years with the national team and having played 100 international matches, I have never acted negatively, and the national team’s best interest has always been my priority.”
“I wish the national team all the best.”