Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah, now with Trabzonspor, finds himself embroiled in a legal challenge in Egypt. The New Cairo Court recently mandated his physical presence for a critical hearing scheduled for September 6, 2026, related to a dispute concerning legal fees claimed by his former attorney.
The civil chamber of the New Cairo Court of First Instance is overseeing this case, numbered 7826 of 2025. Salah is required to appear in court, following a complaint from lawyer Amr Farag Allah Morsi Abdel Tawab, who asserts that Salah owes him money for legal, administrative, and advisory services rendered over the years.
Why is Mohamed Salah Required to Attend Court?
The court expects Salah to take a “decisive oath” to affirm his claim that he did not receive the aforementioned legal and administrative services nor owes the attorney any fees. Should Salah neglect to appear or refuse to take the oath without a valid legal reason, he may be deemed to have declined the oath, with significant implications for the case’s resolution.
The legal dispute stems from a lawsuit filed in September 2025 by the attorney, asserting that he is due compensation for services provided on Salah’s behalf. The lawyer claims to have acted under an official power of attorney established in 2012, which he states empowered him to manage various legal matters related to Salah until he was relieved of this authority in August 2025.
Additionally, the lawyer has sought compensation for both material and moral damages incurred due to non-payment, along with expenses he incurred while managing the related legal work. This ongoing challenge highlights the complexities and professional obligations that athletes often face off the pitch.
Understanding the Decisive Oath
The “decisive oath” is a legal procedure within the Egyptian judicial system intended to resolve disputes. One party in a case can request the other to swear to tell the truth regarding a specific disputed fact. If the individual takes the oath, it carries legal weight and can help decide the outcome. Conversely, if the individual declines to take the oath or fails to appear in court without an acceptable reason, the court may consider that refusal significant, potentially swinging the case in favor of the opposing party.
A Hearing at a Critical Time for Salah
The timing of the September 6 hearing presents challenges for Salah. Coinciding with his new journey in the Turkish league with Trabzonspor, the hearing date poses a logistical dilemma. Salah was set to make his league debut against Kasimpasa on August 15 and his club’s match against Genclerbirligi is on the exact day of the court appearance.
As Salah navigates this legal matter, he also embarks on this critical chapter of his professional football career—a balancing act that could affect his performance and preparation. With expectations high for both his on-field abilities and the resolution of this legal dispute, Salah’s situation underscores the intense pressures professional athletes often face beyond the game.