Media commentator Ahmed Shobair commented on the controversy and crises surrounding the Egyptian national football team in recent times, emphasizing the need to separate jurisdictions within the Egyptian football system and stressing the establishment of clear boundaries for each party's authority.
Shobair said in statements during his radio program: "The match between Egypt and South Africa has also become a crisis match. We had three matches, and all of them have become crises. The first match against Angola ended in a goalless draw, so the crisis intensified. In the second match, we beat South Sudan, so the crisis calmed down slightly."
He continued: "But we are living through difficult times, and I do not understand how things are proceeding. If I speak about something to contribute to solving some crises, they tell me, 'Have you been drinking jasmine tea or what?' Malice has spread unusually. And if I remain silent, they ask me why I am silent?"
He added: "If things continue this way, either I will go mad or be forced to say contradictory things. I see that the national team is progressing well and its results are good. I never endorse any wrong behavior; I am very clear on this matter. I believe that whoever makes a mistake must apologize, declare their error, and address everyone properly."
He added: "I am also among those who strongly favor clear boundaries in work. I respect the federation president and the national team coach. This is how things proceed logically. This must happen when roles become mixed up, with everyone sticking to their own duties. Engineer Hany Abo Rida cannot ask Hossam Hassan to field one player at the expense of another. If the coach accepts such interference, he does not deserve his position."
He continued: "Nor can Captain Hossam Hassan tell Engineer Hany Abo Rida that he wants a specific head of delegation. Each has their own role, and this should not bother anyone at all. Mixing up roles signals a very serious danger. I believe it is imperative that Abo Rida takes action to clarify every point, ensuring everyone knows their role and authority, because we do not need new problems."
He further stated: "Let us set aside today's match against South Africa. As their coach Molefi said, it is merely a friendly match. However, I am still expected to win, or at least perform well, or at least benefit from the experience and assess many players. The result is in God's hands, but we must try and work with all our strength."
He concluded: "But ultimately, every match comes with a problem. Before Angola, there was a problem and fire. Before South Sudan, there was a problem and fire. We say thank God it is over and things have calmed down, only to find them flaring up again."
