Essam El Hadary

Essam El Hadary, born on January fifteenth, nineteen seventy-three, is a distinguished Egyptian goalkeeping coach and a former professional football goalkeeper. Known affectionately as the 'High Dam', he is celebrated for his remarkable contributions to the sport, particularly during his extensive tenure with Al Ahly, where he secured an impressive collection of titles including seven Egyptian Premier Leagues and three CAF Champions Leagues.

Throughout his illustrious career, El Hadary made a significant impact on the international stage, earning a place as the third highest in all-time appearances for Egypt with one hundred fifty-nine caps from nineteen ninety-six to two thousand eighteen. His prowess was instrumental in Egypt's triumph in the Africa Cup of Nations, where he was part of the victorious squad on four occasions and was recognized as the tournament's best goalkeeper three times.

In a historic moment during the two thousand eighteen World Cup, El Hadary etched his name in the record books by becoming the oldest player to participate in a World Cup match at the age of forty-five years and one hundred sixty-one days. This milestone further solidified his legacy as one of the sport's greats.

After hanging up his gloves, El Hadary was poised to take on the role of goalkeeping coach for Étoile Sahel in Tunisia, joining the technical staff under Jorvan Vieira. However, personal circumstances, particularly his mother's illness, led him to withdraw from this opportunity, showcasing his commitment to family alongside his professional aspirations.