Egypt Coach Carlos Queiroz Steps Down From Role

Portuguese Carlos Queiroz confirmed on Monday he was leaving his job as coach of Egypt’s national team, ending speculation he would stay on despite failing to lead them to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Queiroz, 69, had a six-month contract with Egypt, taking over in September to steer them through the group phase of the World Cup qualifiers. He led Egypt to a two-legged playoff last month which they lost on penalties to Senegal, missing out on a place at this year’s tournament in Qatar.

Queiroz took Egypt to the Arab Cup semi-finals in Qatar in December with a team made up of home-based players. With a full squad in February, they reached the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final in Cameroon, only to lose to Senegal on penalties.

“To all  the Egyptian fans, our supporters, my friendly and magical staff dream team, and to my wonderful players, Every new beginning that starts with one painful farewell, means that our hearts are full of gratitude, respect, and friendship. Those are my feelings right now,” Queiroz wrote on Twitter.

To All,
The Egyptian fans; Our supporters;
My friendly and magical staff dream team; And to my wonderful players;

Every new beginning that starts with one painful farewell, means that our hearts are full of gratitude, respect, and friendship. Those are my feelings right now. pic.twitter.com/PKgTOCrLgg

— Carlos Queiroz (@Carlos_Queiroz) April 11, 2022

The Egypt Football Association said it had talked to Queiroz and had agreed to part ways. It will look to appoint a replacement before the start of the next AFCON qualifiers in June.

Egypt were the sixth national team Queiroz coached in his long career, which also includes spells as manager of Real Madrid and assistant to Alex Ferguson at Manchester United.

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Chidi Nwoke/Reuters.