Ahmed "Koka" Hassan reflects on career moves, time at Le Havre and Egypt exile

Photo Credit: Havre Athletic Club FA

Egyptian forward Ahmed "Koka" Hassan said he never imagined himself playing in the French Ligue 1 before joining current club Le Havre. The lanky striker is spending his debut season at the relegation fighters after time at Portuguese side Rio Ave.

The 32-year-old striker told the club’s official site that he was weighing his options to join other European clubs before his transfer to Le Havre. “It wasn't really in my head (to play in France). We don't think about that,” said the former Egypt national team striker.

He added that offers from Italy were tabled for him. “Previously, I had offers from Italy, but money is sometimes a big reason to decide something else. That is why many players go to Turkey, because the financial situation is different. There are no taxes, unlike in France where they are very high.”

Financial motives did not persuade Koka not to join the Ligue 1 strugglers. Adapting to a new country has not been a problem either. “I've been playing in Europe since I was 18. I have spent almost my entire career in Europe, so it wasn't difficult for me to adapt. It is a little colder, but that's okay! I'm also lucky with this group: for me, it is one of the best groups of players I have known in my entire career.”

Koka still hopes to return to the national team, but he rolled the ball over to head coach Hossam Hassan as he suggested it is up to the coach to decide:

“It is hard to forget your national team. I spent twelve years, maybe more, in the national team. I was called up for the first time when I was around 18 or 19. Representing my country made me proud! But I think the most important people in football are the coaches. A coach can change your life. You can be good, but if the coach doesn't like you, you don't play, and if you are bad but the coach likes you, you play! I am not in the current manager's (Hossam Hassan) plans. I have nothing to say about that; I work, do my job. The rest, I can't control. I wish the team the best.”

Koka has scored two league goals in twelve appearances. Le Havre’s coach usually deploys the forward from the bench, as the club is also home to Ghana legend Andre Ayew. The former Al Ahly youth player played a key role when Le Havre beat Lens and Lille.

Le Havre are now in a relegation battle as they sit 16th with 27 points following their heavy 5-1 defeat to Stade Rennes on matchday 29 of Ligue 1.