Did Mohamed Salah refuse to be subbed? Egypt address petulance claims surrounding Liverpool superstar on 2026 World Cup qualifying duty

The 31-year-old forward, who is captain of his country, was on target in a 1-1 draw with Guinea-Bissau – taking his haul of international goals to 57. His latest effort helped the Pharaohs to preserve their unbeaten record in qualification and remain at the top of Group A.

Salah’s important contribution to the Egyptian cause came in the 70th minute, and they were eager to make changes when hanging on to a point in stoppage-time. Mostafa Fathi and Nasser Maher were readied on the sidelines, but only the latter made it onto the field – with the former returning to the bench.

Responding to accusations of Salah refusing to be replaced, the Egyptian FA has said in a statement relayed by King Fut: “There is absolutely no truth to the rumours that Mohamed Salah refused to leave the pitch. Salah was not going to be substituted off in the first place. Hossam Hassan was content with only bringing on Nasser Maher.”

Salah will be due back at Liverpool this summer, as talk of a transfer to the Saudi Pro League begins to fade, but the Reds may be set for another battle with Egypt as they have stated an intention to select a talismanic figure as an overage player in their squad for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris – which would force him miss part of pre-season under new Anfield boss Arne Slot.