The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has appointed Ali Maher as head coach of Egypt’s national football team after deciding to part ways with Hossam Hassan on November 7. The 52-year-old takes over just days before two crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Malawi, bringing years of experience in Egyptian football and a reputation for his attacking approach.
While his appointment may not have come as a surprise to those following his growing success at club level, here’s a look at the key milestones that shaped Maher’s career, both as a player and a coach.
He Started His Football Career as a Player
Maher began his football journey at Tersana Club in 1989, progressing through its youth ranks before joining the first team as a striker in 1991. He later played for Al Ansar in Saudi Arabia, Al Ahly and ENPPI, establishing himself as a familiar name in Egyptian football.
However, following a cruciate ligament injury in 1998, Maher struggled to regain his previous form and fitness. He eventually retired from professional football in 2004, at the age of 31.
He Made His Move Into Coaching
After retiring as a player, Maher shifted his focus to coaching, initially working with Al Ahly’s youth teams before joining the club’s first-team coaching staff in 2013.
He began his managerial career with El Mostakbal in 2015, followed by spells at Tersana and Al Assiouty SC, the club that later became Pyramids FC. He subsequently managed Smouha, ENPPI, Al Masry, Future FC, returned to Al Masry, and eventually took charge of Ceramica Cleopatra.
He Made His Mark at Ceramica Cleopatra
Maher’s most recent spell at Ceramica Cleopatra further strengthened his reputation as an attack-minded coach.
Across 60 matches in charge, his team scored 95 goals, averaging 1.58 goals per game. This was the highest scoring rate among Egyptian clubs outside the traditional top three of Al Ahly, Zamalek and Pyramids.
He Has Lifted Two Egyptian League Cup Titles as a Coach
Maher has lifted the Egyptian League Cup twice. His first triumph came with Future FC in 2022, followed by another title with Ceramica Cleopatra in 2025, adding two important achievements to his coaching career.
He Is Known for His Attacking Coaching Style
Maher is known for favouring attacking football, drawing inspiration from Spanish coach Pep Guardiola, particularly his emphasis on possession, movement, and taking risks going forward.
He generally favours a 4-2-3-1 formation, although his approach can vary depending on the demands of a match. His teams focus on controlling possession, building attacks through short passes and creating opportunities through movement in the final third.
His First Challenge With the Pharaohs Is Just Around the Corner
Maher won’t have much time to settle into his new position, as Egypt are preparing for back-to-back matches against Malawi on November 13 and 17 as part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The Pharaohs currently lead Group B with four points, making the upcoming fixtures an important first test for their new head coach.
With years of experience across Egypt’s biggest domestic competitions, two League Cup titles and a clear attacking philosophy, Maher now faces one of the biggest challenges of his coaching career. His appointment marks a new chapter for the Pharaohs, with his first two matches offering an early glimpse of what he hopes to bring to the national team.
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