Egypt s Mexican tactician Javier Aguirre said on Monday that he is looking to form a team that would compete for the African Cup of Nations title when Egypt hosts the top-flight competition this summer.
"Managing Egypt is a very special mission as Egypt has a big history in African football," the 60-year-old coach told a press conference ahead of Egypt s friendly against Nigeria.
"I can feel a great concern with the competition in Egypt. I am preparing a team that would truly compete for the title," Aguirre added.
When asked about Mohamed Salah, Aguirre pointed out that he decided not to include the Liverpool winger in Egypt s squad in the AFCON qualifier against Niger and the friendly against Nigeria as he wanted to give the chance to new faces.
The Pharaohs were held to a 1-1 away draw against Niger on Saturday in their last game in the qualifiers before flying to Nigeria ahead of the friendly against the Super Eagles on Tuesday.
