Mohamed Elneny is now on international duty with Egypt but will be back with Arsenal in a week or so.

The midfielder has forced his way into the Arsenal side over the course of the last month and impressed constantly, even in games against Spurs and Barcelona.

It’s not only Elneny’s success but will be seen as the success of a nation. Arsenal have never had a player from the African nation make it to the first team, though Rami Shaaban’s father was Egyptian, and it’s a source of pride for the goalkeeper to see someone from the country make it in north London.

“Looking at Egyptian players historically, there have been some amazing talents but only a few have been able to take that step. I think that Mohamed Elneny will be one of them,” Shaaban said to Arsenal.com“I think he’s going to fit the club perfectly and listening to what the boss says about him as well only makes me more convinced.”

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Mohamed Elneny has impressed former Arsenal goalkeeper Rami Shaaban. (Odd Andersen/AFP/Getty Images)

Arsène Wenger has undoubtedly been impressed by the midfielder and was eager to sign him in January. Now he’s playing regularly for the boss and doesn’t look like dropping out of the side anytime soon.

If Shaaban’s experiences are anything to go by, Elneny will become a hero in his homeland if he isn’t one already.

“Football is like a religion for Egyptians, especially with the tough times in Egypt at the moment. I remember when I went to Egypt. It was like a superstar had arrived at the airport. For me it was a shock.

“You can’t compare that with Sweden. In Egypt, they really praise their stars. He has really adapted and I hope he gets more and more time. But it will take time. I hope he can make that step to be a regular and become something really big at Arsenal.”