Egypt carry their own burden. The record seven-time Africa Cup of Nations winners have never truly thrived on the World Cup stage with Salah in their ranks. They have progressed beyond the group stage just once in their history, back in 1934. Reaching the Round of 16 this summer would represent the finest World Cup campaign of Salah's international career.
A rivalry built on respect
For all the intensity their clubs generated, De Bruyne and Salah have never been anything but warm toward one another. When De Bruyne departed Manchester City in 2025, Salah told Gary Neville:
