Why Hossam Hassan Could Not Be Wooed By Mamelodi Sundowns Despite Reported Offer

Mamelodi Sundowns reportedly made an approach for former Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan following his sudden departure from the Pharaohs, but the Egyptian tactician appears to have other priorities as he considers the next chapter of his coaching career.

Hassan became available after the Egyptian Football Association announced on 7 November that it had parted ways with him and his technical and administrative staff. The decision came despite the coach guiding Egypt to a historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, where the Pharaohs reached the knockout stage for the first time.

According to reports originating from Erem News and subsequently carried by several football publications, Sundowns approached Hassan shortly after their 3-1 defeat to USM Alger in the CAF Super Cup final. The timing fuelled speculation that the Brazilians could be considering a change in the technical department.

However, the situation at Chloorkop is more complicated than simply saying Hassan rejected Sundowns.

Recent reporting indicates that Miguel Cardoso continues to have the backing of the Sundowns hierarchy despite the club's disappointing continental results. The Portuguese coach remains in charge, meaning Hassan's reported approach should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that the position is vacant.

Hassan's own preferences may also have influenced the situation.

Reports indicate that the 60-year-old coach is considering several possibilities after leaving Egypt, including opportunities involving national teams. A reported verbal approach from Jordan and an informal possibility involving Iraq have also been mentioned.

That could be significant because Hassan reportedly prefers working with national teams, potentially making another international assignment more attractive to him than immediately returning to club football.

His recent achievements also mean Hassan is unlikely to be short of options. He guided Egypt through an impressive World Cup campaign, helping them secure their first World Cup victory in 92 years and reach the last 16 before eventually losing 3-2 to Argentina.

Despite those achievements, Egypt's football authorities decided to move in a different direction and appointed Ali Maher as Hassan's replacement.

For Sundowns, the reported interest in Hassan nevertheless demonstrates the level of coach they could consider if their technical situation changes. Hassan has enormous experience in African football, understands the pressures surrounding major clubs and has worked with some of the continent's biggest players.

But for now, there is no confirmed agreement between Hassan and Sundowns.

The immediate focus at Chloorkop remains on Cardoso and whether he can deliver the results expected from one of Africa's most ambitious clubs.

If Sundowns eventually decide to make a coaching change, Hassan could remain an intriguing candidate. For the moment, however, the Egyptian coach appears to be carefully weighing his options rather than rushing into his next appointment.

Source:

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