Mohamed Elneny ‘has to leave’ Arsenal in January to get his confidence back, at least on loan, according to his former manager Hamdi Nouh.

Before he came to Europe to play for FC Basel, Elneny used to play for an Egyptian team called El Mokawloon. One of his managers at the club was Hamdi Nouh, who has clearly followed the progress of his former player ever since.

After the recent change in the head coach at the Emirates, Nouh told Egyptian media Elneny needs to move on from Arsenal.

“He has to leave Arsenal in the next transfer period,” Nouh said. “He has to leave, at least on a loan basis, to play more and to regain his confidence.

“His situation is influenced by a manager change and a new way of playing, but I am convinced that he will return even better, because his enormous potential and his winning mentality will help him to come back.”

Nouh might get his wish, as Football.London claim Elneny is expected to be made available this month, after playing just 59 minutes of Premier League football all season.

The Egyptian midfielder has had more luck in the Europa League and the League Cup, making six starts and providing one assist, with Arsenal winning all six matches. However, that’s still not exactly what you’d describe as ‘regular’ football.

Elneny has always given his all for Arsenal, and he appears to provide a positive influence in the dressing room. On the pitch, his influence is admittedly wavering, so perhaps a move would be the best thing for his career.