Salah: We want to enjoy the World Cup

Mohamed Salah said Hossam Hassan has helped shape Egypt’s run to the World Cup 2026 last 16, as he reflected on the team’s mood and his own legacy.

Speaking to reporters, the Egypt captain said he did not have a specific dream in mind right now, but wanted to be remembered for giving people hope, especially children. He said that message mattered beyond football and that he wanted younger players, including Omar Marmoush, to carry it forward.

Salah also said he no longer pays attention to social media criticism about his commitment to the national team. He said he does not need to prove anything to anyone and prefers to help teammates inside the dressing room rather than stand over them giving orders.

The Liverpool forward said the squad had not changed much from previous camps, but the atmosphere was good and the group should enjoy the moment. He added that earlier Egypt generations won multiple Africa Cup of Nations titles without reaching the World Cup, making this a rare chance that may not come again.

Salah said Egypt’s current generation were unlucky not to win the Africa Cup of Nations, losing two finals, but that the World Cup success felt like a major reward.