The 53-year-old managed the seven-time African champions' round-of-16 elimination after they drew 1-1 on January 28 and lost on penalties to Congo DR.

An EFA statement said, “Thanks to Rui Vitoria and his backroom staff. The Board of Directors of the Egyptian Football Association, following a meeting to discuss the administrative and technical reports of the national team's participation at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d'Ivoire, have decided to say thank you to the Portuguese coach Rui Vitoria and his staff.”

The announcement also disclosed that Mohamed Youssef, a former player for the Pharaohs and current coach of domestic powerhouse Al Ahly, will assume leadership temporarily until a replacement is found.

“We are studying the biographies of foreign coaches, and they will be presented at the next meeting,” said the statement. “A foreign technical director will be selected, and the rest of the staff will be formed.”

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A passionate Irish journalist with a love for cycling, politics and of course Portugal especially their sausage rolls.

Rory Mc Ginn