Best 10 Egyptian Footballers of All Time

From the roaring stands of Cairo to the grandest stages of the FIFA World Cup, Egyptian footballers have carved out a legacy that transcends borders. They’ve inspired generations, brought home countless trophies, and created moments that will live forever in the hearts of fans.

This list celebrates the 10 greatest Egyptian footballers of all time, chosen for their talent, achievements, influence, and the unforgettable memories they’ve given the world. These players didn’t just play the game — they defined it for Egypt.

1. Mohamed Salah – The Egyptian King

Position: Right Winger / Forward

Mohamed Salah is arguably the most famous Egyptian footballer of the modern era. Known for his blistering pace, exquisite dribbling, and clinical finishing, Salah has become a global icon. Since joining Liverpool in 2017, he has won the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, FIFA Club World Cup, and multiple Golden Boots.

Internationally, Salah has been the face of the Egyptian national team, leading them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup and to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations. His humility off the pitch, combined with his superstar status, has made him a beloved figure not just in Egypt but worldwide.

Career Stats:

• Egypt caps/goals: 100+ / 50+
• Major honors: 2× Premier League Golden Boot, Champions League (2019), AFCON runner-up (2017, 2021)

2. Mahmoud El Khatib – Bibo the Maestro

Position: Forward

Mahmoud El Khatib, affectionately known as “Bibo,” is one of the most technically gifted players Egypt has ever produced. Playing his entire career with Al Ahly, El Khatib was a master of ball control, vision, and finishing. He led Al Ahly to multiple Egyptian league titles and African club championships.

In 1983, he became the first Egyptian to win the African Footballer of the Year award. El Khatib’s elegance on the ball and his leadership on the field made him a national treasure. Today, his influence continues as Al Ahly’s president, shaping the future of Egyptian football.

3. Hossam Hassan – The Goal Machine

Position: Striker

Hossam Hassan is Egypt’s all-time leading scorer with over 80 international goals. A relentless poacher with unmatched positioning, Hassan terrorized defenders for more than two decades. His career included stints in Switzerland and Greece, but his best moments came in Egypt, where he won three Africa Cup of Nations titles.

Hassan’s passion and leadership made him a true captain, and his name is synonymous with success in Egyptian football history.

4. Ahmed Hassan – The Iron Man

Position: Midfielder

Ahmed Hassan holds the world record for most international appearances by a male player (184 caps). Versatile, powerful, and with a knack for scoring from midfield, Hassan was the heartbeat of the Egyptian team that dominated African football in the late 2000s.

He won four Africa Cup of Nations titles (1998, 2006, 2008, 2010) and played professionally in Turkey and Belgium. Hassan’s durability and consistency made him one of the most respected players in African football.

5. Mohamed Aboutrika – The Magician

Position: Attacking Midfielder

Mohamed Aboutrika is often called the most beloved player in Egyptian football history. Known for his intelligence, technical skill, and composure, Aboutrika was a key figure in Al Ahly’s dominance during the 2000s.

Internationally, he was instrumental in Egypt’s AFCON wins in 2006 and 2008, scoring crucial goals in finals. Off the pitch, his humility and social activism — like his famous “Sympathize with Gaza” shirt — turned him into a symbol of hope and unity.

6. Essam El-Hadary – The High Dam

Position: Goalkeeper

Essam El-Hadary is widely regarded as Africa’s greatest goalkeeper. Standing tall with lightning reflexes, he was the backbone of Egypt’s four AFCON titles between 1998 and 2010. His shot-stopping ability, leadership, and penalty-saving heroics made him legendary.

In 2018, El-Hadary became the oldest player to appear in a World Cup match at 45, proving that class is eternal.

7. Rifaat El-Fanagily – The Midfield General

Position: Midfielder

A star of the 1950s and 1960s, Rifaat El-Fanagily was a creative and intelligent midfielder who played a vital role in Egypt’s 1959 AFCON victory. Representing Egypt in two Olympic Games, he became known for his vision and precise passing. His influence helped lay the foundation for Egypt’s future footballing success.

8. Ibrahim Hassan – The Tireless Engine

Position: Right Back / Wing-Back

Ibrahim Hassan, twin brother of Hossam Hassan, was a dynamic and relentless right back. Known for his lung-busting runs down the flank and solid defensive work, he earned over 130 caps for Egypt and played in three FIFA World Cups. His partnership with his brother became one of Egypt’s most iconic football duos.

9. Hassan Shehata – The Gentleman Forward

Position: Forward

Hassan Shehata was a top-class forward in the 1970s, known for his vision and creativity. Named African Footballer of the Year in 1974, he later became even more famous as a coach, leading Egypt to three consecutive AFCON titles (2006, 2008, 2010). His dual legacy as a player and manager is unmatched in African football.

10. Tarek El Ashry – The Defensive Rock

Position: Defender

Tarek El Ashry may not have the same international fame as others on this list, but his defensive intelligence and consistency made him a vital figure for club and country. Renowned for his reading of the game, he contributed to several strong defensive eras in Egyptian football, proving that not all heroes are headline-makers.

Honorable Mentions – Legends Who Just Missed the Top 10

• Magdy Abdelghani – Scored Egypt’s only goal at the 1990 World Cup and was a midfield leader.
• Ali Abou Gresha – A prolific 1970s striker for Ismaily and the national team.
• Shikabala – Known for his dribbling flair and creativity, a fan favorite at Zamalek.
• Mohamed Barakat – Versatile attacker who shone in both club and international football.
• Wael Gomaa – A rock-solid central defender, nicknamed “The Rock,” key to Egypt’s 2000s dominance.

Quick Stats Table – The Greatest Egyptian Footballers

Player	Position	Egypt Caps	Egypt Goals	Major Titles (Club & Country)
Mohamed Salah	Right Winger / Forward	100+	50+	Champions League, Premier League, 2× PL Golden Boot
Mahmoud El Khatib	Forward	170+	60+	African Footballer of the Year (1983), CAF Champions League
Hossam Hassan	Striker	170+	80+	3× AFCON Champion
Ahmed Hassan	Midfielder	184	33	4× AFCON Champion
Mohamed Aboutrika	Attacking Midfielder	100+	38	2× AFCON Champion, CAF Champions League
Essam El-Hadary	Goalkeeper	150+	0	4× AFCON Champion
Rifaat El-Fanagily	Midfielder	70+	10+	AFCON Champion (1959)
Ibrahim Hassan	Right Back / Wing-Back	130+	12	3× AFCON Champion
Hassan Shehata	Forward	50+	14	AFCON Champion (1986 as player), 3× AFCON Champion as coach
Tarek El Ashry	Defender	30+	1	Multiple domestic titles

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A Legacy Written in Red, White, and Black

Egypt’s football history is a story of skill, passion, and national pride. From Salah’s dazzling runs in the Premier League to El-Hadary’s penalty saves in AFCON finals, these players have given Egypt unforgettable memories. They’ve inspired not only a nation but also the entire African continent.

And as new talents rise from the streets of Cairo, Alexandria, and beyond, the legacy of these legends ensures that Egyptian football’s future will remain just as bright as its glorious past.