Ashour was outstanding in providing defensive support and bursting forward to boost Egypt’s attack during their action-packed Group B campaign.

But a concussion prevented the man who has been likened to Pharaohs legend Ahmed Hassan from taking part in their surprise defeat by DR Congo in the last 16.

Despite playing substantially fewer minutes than many of his team-mates, Ashour still finished near the top of the standings among the squad in terms of chances created, passes, tackles won and ball carries, while only top scorer Mostafa Mohamed bettered his four attempts on target.

The 25-year-old had a brief spell with three-time Danish champions Midtjylland in 2023, scoring on his Europa League and Superliga debuts after making a reported €2.6m ($2.8m) move from Egyptian side Zamalek.

He returned to the top flight in his homeland with Al Ahly last July – but could a European giant tempt him away from the reigning Egyptian champions?