Locker Room Myths Busted: Egypt’s U-20 World Cup Kit Controversy Explained

Background: What sparked the rumors

The Egyptian Football Association issued an official statement on October 8, 2025, addressing widespread speculation that players from the Egypt Under-20 team were forced to return the outfits worn at the World Cup in Chile. The federation stressed that the claims were not accurate and that all actions followed established administrative and financial rules in cooperation with the team sponsor.

What really happened: Kit distribution and return

The statement clarified that the U-20 squad received full kits before the tournament, under a system approved by the sponsor. The shirts intended for potential future rounds were shipped to Chile in advance to ensure readiness and avoid shortages during competition. After group-stage elimination, the administrative process involved returning unused kits to federation warehouses as part of standard procedure.

Impact, leadership, and what comes next

The federation emphasized that used kits remain with players or staff as part of their personal belongings after official competition. The return of unused outfits is to safeguard public funds and comply with financial regulations; the sponsor continues to provide equipment according to the plan for each tournament.

The statement reaffirmed respect for players and staff and urged media to verify information with official sources to prevent confusion or damage to the national teams' image. Egypt U-20 exited the World Cup after losses to Japan and New Zealand, with a late 2-1 win over Chile not enough to advance due to fair play ranking and other criteria.

The team was led by Osama Nabi, with Rogério Mikali previously in charge before a financial dispute with the federation and the possible arrival of Shouqi Gharib as successor. The next campaign includes AFCON U-23 qualifiers for 2027 and potential qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics if the field is reduced to 12 teams. Discussions continue about Nabi's future and a possible appointment of Gharib, who has notable credentials including Tokyo Olympics qualification, a bronze at the 2001 World Youth Championship, and a U-22 African title.

The federation says it will keep investing in the development of the youth, emphasizing transparency in resource management and urging media to rely on official sources. The Egyptian football system remains committed to building a stronger generation for future international appearances.

Sniper punchline 1: If rumors were clothes, this thread would need a tailor and a shredder—truth always fits better.

Sniper punchline 2: In football as in fashion, the only thing worse than a bad kit is a rumor dressed up as fact.