Helmey Tolan, the former head coach of the Egypt national team for local players, commented on statements made by Hossam Hassan, the head coach of the Egypt senior national team, regarding Mohamed Salah, the captain of the Pharaohs.
Tolan said via MBC Masr 2 channel: "I don't think things are that simple. The mistake was grave at all levels, whether against the clubs, the Football Association, or the players, especially Mohamed Salah. It is an unforgivable mistake, and I believe it will have side effects."
He added: "Hossam Hassan's recent remarks (made matters worse). The national team relies on Salah, and many players around the world had their national teams depend on them."
He clarified: "Maradona and Messi, the Argentina national team relied on them, and Ronaldo in Brazil. Mohamed Salah is one of the top 4 or 5 players in the world, and the national team relies on him."
He continued: "Mohamed Salah is treated very badly, which is not befitting a player of his stature. I consider him an exceptional ambassador, and he must not be harmed."
He concluded: "I call on the state to protect him, because he is a national asset that must be preserved."
