Saudi Gazette report
HONG KONG — Al Qadsiah supervisor Michel González says the 2025 Saudi Tremendous Cup presents the proper launchpad for a robust begin to the brand new season, including that solely the absence of Al Hilal retains the match from being an entire showcase of Saudi Arabia’s high soccer expertise.
Talking forward of his workforce’s semi-final conflict with Al Ahli in Hong Kong, González downplayed any worry issue. “Not like final season, we don’t worry any workforce,” he mentioned.
“This match is a reward for our efforts final 12 months, and it provides us motivation to proceed on the identical path. We all know the extent of the opponent, however we’re not afraid.”
González was candid in his view that the competitors options the highest 4 groups from final season — however added with a smirk, “The match solely misses one factor Al Hilal.”
When requested if the opponent being Al Ahli somewhat than Hilal modified something by way of preparation, the Spanish coach responded: “Whether or not it’s Hilal or Ahli, our preparation stays the identical. We’ve top-level worldwide gamers and are pleased to be a part of this match. Truthfully, with Hilal not collaborating, we should always’ve gone straight to the ultimate.”
Pressed on Al Ahli’s invitation to switch Hilal, González deflected: “That’s not my job to touch upon. My job is to organize my workforce that’s your job as journalists.”
Reflecting on Al Qadsiah’s 1994 Asian Cup win in Hong Kong, he mentioned: “Soccer strikes quick. However we’re bold and need to convey that trophy again from Hong Kong once more, based mostly on what we constructed final season.”
On the rising expectations following a summer time of signings and funding, González mentioned: “It’s not nearly spending cash. Some golf equipment spent way over us final season however completed beneath us. It’s about constructing a workforce. We’ve 25 gamers of excessive worth.”
Addressing the departure of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and the arrival of Mateo Retegui, he was stuffed with reward for the previous: “Aubameyang gave us loads on and off the pitch. He was nice for the group. However the membership decided for the long run by signing Retegui. Massive names should ship massive performances. That’s the problem.”
The Spanish coach closed his remarks by defending Saudi soccer in opposition to world skepticism. “Many individuals talk about spending, however what Al Hilal did on the Membership World Cup answered all these critics. Some discuss with out even watching. The competitiveness right here is actual.”
In the meantime, Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels thanked Hong Kong for the nice and cozy welcome and mentioned the workforce is totally targeted on delivering a high efficiency.
“The preparation interval went effectively. It was thrilling to see our followers ready on the resort, it exhibits the expansion of Saudi soccer.”
