Veteran Aboutrika with point to prove
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.An ageing talent included in the squad amid grumbling that he's being picked less on merit than on past reputation? For David Beckham, read Mohamed Aboutrika. The most rabid Zamalek fans aside, nobody would dispute the contribution the playmaker has made to Egypt's domination of African football, but after a foot injury caused him to miss their third straight Cup of Nations success in Angola in January, there have been questions as to whether he is sufficiently recovered to be worth his place in the squad.
The 31-year-old's only appearance this year for his club, Al Ahly, was as a substitute in last week's 2-2 draw with Gaish, but Egypt's coach, Hassan Shehata, was characteristically forthright in defending his selection. "He is fit and that's why he's in," he said. "He's been in the squad for a long time, but there are no favours for anyone."
His eagerness to bring back Aboutrika is understandable. The playmaker, who has a degree in philosophy, is probably the best player currently active outside Europe and South America. Technically gifted, he also has a remarkable spatial awareness and an admirable temperament under pressure. There are those who would suggest that by remaining in Egypt he has never fully tested his talents against top opposition, but his performances against Brazil and Italy in last summer's Confederations Cup showed just how effective he can be, even against the best in the world.
Future Pharoahs? Egypt's three to watch
Essam El-Hadary
The veteran goalkeeper has been a mainstay of the national side since his debut in 1996 and the 37-year-old has won four African Cup of Nations and earned 119 caps.
Ahmed Hassan
Has made 172 appearances for his country, and the majority of Egypt's play is dictated by the 34-year-old captain. The bustling midfielder played in Europe with Besiktas and Anderlecht.
Mohamed Zidan
A talented striker who has been instrumental in Egypt's recent successes and plays in Germany for Borussia Dortmund. Has been linked with a move to the Premier League.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments