Egyptian FA addresses U-20 team kit controversy

The Egyptian FA has released a detailed statement clarifying the recent uproar about the national U20 team allegedly being forced to return their kits after exiting the U-20 World Cup in Chile.

The FA stressed, “What has been circulated is completely untrue,” emphasizing that all procedures followed strict administrative and financial protocols agreed with the official sponsor.

The statement outlined that players received their full kit allocations, from training to match day uniforms, before the tournament kicked off. Unused kit items, intended for further tournament rounds, were simply returned to the federation’s storage once the team was eliminated, as is standard practice. “This was not a demand for players to return worn kits,” the FA noted, explaining that used garments remain with players as personal keepsakes.

The FA condemned attempts to “distort the system’s image” and reaffirmed its respect for players and staff. Looking forward, after coach Osama Nabih’s exit, talks are underway with veteran manager Shawky Gharib, praised for his Olympic and World Cup achievements.