Egypt part ways with manager after World Cup exit

The coach oversaw a dreadful effort by the 'Pharoahs' at the tournament, as they failed to pick up a point in Group A, which included a disappointing loss to Saudi Arabia in their final match.

Cuper, who was out of contract after the tournament anyway, left his role after the board of the Egyptian FA decided the team needed to go in a different direction.

The Argentine took over the reigns of the team in 2015 and helped them achieve some major milestones in the footballing history of the country.

"'We appreciate the work from the coach, from reaching the Africa Cup of Nations after three years of absence and taking Egypt to the World Cup after 28 years of absence" the Egyptian FA said in a statement.

Their attention may now turn to Mohamed Salah, after rumours have been circulated that he may choose to retire from international duty after the display in Russia, as well as his off the field duties which included meeting the controversial Chechan leader Ramzan Kadyrov. This made the Liverpool star particularly unhappy it is thought. 

On his return to Egypt, Salah told 'beIN Sports' that he wanted to apologise to his nation's fans.

"I know it is difficult for them, like us. Just want to say that Egypt reached the World Cup after 28 years, some players here do not have the required experience, thanks to all of them and we will back again in 2022."