Roger Hampel
Note: This article is based on a video interview with the President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, conducted by talkSPORT.
Introduction
The President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation recently sat down with talkSPORT to discuss an array of topics, from the appointment of Roberto Mancini as the national team's head coach to Saudi Arabia's aspiration to host future football tournaments. He also touched upon the sensitive issue of sports washing, asserting that the Federation's investments in football are fueled by a genuine passion for the sport.
No Collusion with PIF on Newcastle Trip
The President clarified that the Saudi national team's trip to Newcastle was facilitated through an invitation from the club's CEO. He emphasized that there had been no collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the majority owner of Newcastle United, but noted that having them as an independent authority is a positive development for Saudi football.
Appointment of Roberto Mancini
The President detailed the process leading to Roberto Mancini's appointment as the national team's head coach. According to him, Mancini's rich experience and past successes made him the ideal choice to steer the Saudi team towards improving their FIFA ranking and achieving global recognition.
Aiming for Top 20 and the Asian Cup
Saudi Arabia has set an ambitious target of becoming a top 20 team in the FIFA rankings and aims to win the Asian Cup next year. A plan and a commitment to sustained improvement are the keys, according to the President.
Hosting Aspirations
While acknowledging that the prospects of hosting a World Cup are speculative, the President confirmed that Saudi Arabia is focused on hosting the FIFA Club World Cup in December and planning for the AFC Asian Cup in 2027.
Grassroots and Youth Development
The President highlighted the Federation's focus on grassroots and youth development, mentioning the increase in registered coaches and funding geared towards nurturing young talent.
Women's Football on the Rise
Saudi Arabia is taking steps to promote women's football, including the establishment of a national women's team and investment in developing female players, coaches, and referees.
Investment in the Saudi Pro League
With the influx of international stars into the Saudi Pro League, the Federation believes this will not only raise the league's standards but also create healthy competition and growth opportunities for native players.
Conclusion
The Saudi Football Federation is clearly ambitious, with significant plans for the development of the sport at both the grassroots and elite levels. Whether they can translate this enthusiasm and investment into international success remains to be seen, but the groundwork is certainly being laid for an intriguing future.
Source:
talkSPORT. (n.d.). Saudi FA President EXPLAINS Mancini Appointment
YouTube. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGTH-NPoK0I&list=WL&index=5.
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