The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) is still awaiting confirmation from Liverpool and Manchester City on whether Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush will be released for the upcoming international friendly against Nigeria.
According to Filgoal, the EFA has reached out to both Premier League clubs as part of its preparations for the match scheduled for 14 December at Cairo Stadium.
The fixture is a crucial component of Egypt’s build-up to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where the Pharaohs hope to reinforce their reputation as the tournament’s most successful team.
Head coach Hossam Hassan has asked EFA President Hani Abu Rida to personally oversee the negotiations. Abu Rida has contacted both Liverpool and Manchester City in a bid to secure the players’ release, but no official responses have been received.
There is growing uncertainty over whether either star can join the squad, with both clubs facing congested schedules in mid-December.
- Liverpool host Brighton on 13 December,
- Manchester City take on Crystal Palace on 14 December—the same day Egypt is set to meet Nigeria.
With AFCON fast approaching, the EFA is eager to finalize plans and gain clarity from the clubs.
Nigeria also faces its own selection challenges. Several Super Eagles players in the Premier League have club commitments that clash with the Cairo friendly.
- Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Calvin Bassey will be involved when Fulham face Burnley on 13 December.
- Tolu Arokodare’s Wolves visit Arsenal the same day.
Meanwhile, Frank Onyeka is almost certain to miss the tie, as Brentford are scheduled to play Leeds United on 14 December, ruling him out of international duty.
