Rui Vitoria has finally reacted to his departure from the Egyptian national team after crashing out of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Egypt had suffered a disappointing exit from the 2023 AFCON after losing in the round of 16 on penalties to DR Congo.
The Pharaohs also failed to win any of their four games throughout the tournament and reached the knockout stages after three draws.
As a result, Vitoria was dismissed by the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and was eventually replaced by Egypt legend Hossam Hassan.
Nearly three weeks after his exit, the Portuguese manager has now opened up on his departure and thanked the EFA staff for the time he spent as Egypt’s head coach.
“By decision of the EFA, my cycle as the national team coach of Egypt has come to an end,” Vitoria wrote on Instagram.
“Now that a few days have passed since the official announcement, and after a period of reflection, I can say that I leave after 19 months, 18 games, with only one loss, and with a nomination for the best national team coach in the world.
“What do these numbers mean? They mean that we have dedicated ourselves to building a solid foundation for the present and future of Egyptian football, facing several challenges with determination and an unwavering focus on excellence.
“The four-year contract I signed was intended, as was publicly known, for the groundwork of preparing and renewing the team for the 2026 World Cup. We are at the beginning of 2024.
“I arrived at a challenging time, with the goal of changing the situation of the national team, absent from the last World Cup and in the last place of qualification for the CAN. Our qualification, and subsequent results, are a testament to the ability to overcome challenges and the quality of the work developed.
“Obviously, we were not satisfied with the elimination by penalties in the last CAN. But we know the adversities we faced, about which I may speak later.
“I thank my technical team, the staff, and especially the players, whose commitment and passion were essential. To the fans and the people of Egypt, my deep thanks for the constant support.
“This experience has enriched me professionally and personally, and leaves me convinced, as I have always said, that the future of Egyptian football can be, if everyone so desires, promising.
“Thank you, Egypt, for this memorable journey,” he added.
