The Arab Cup: A Valuable Opportunity for Growth and Development
The upcoming Arab Cup, regardless of the final outcome, provides our team and coaching staff at all levels with a chance to work together, analyze, and draw conclusions.
A Welcome Initiative
As the press notes, any initiative that brings Arab countries together is welcome. Our relationships with these countries are fraternal and well-developed, with many of our technicians working there, and our top players being recruited or even naturalized to strengthen their teams. These competitions help to strengthen ties and allow citizens from across the Arab community to get to know and appreciate each other.
A Reduced Squad, but Still a Valuable Experience
We are interested in this Arab Cup, even with a reduced squad and only a few of our top players available, as some are retained by their clubs and cannot participate. We are negotiating the possibility of including them if we can secure their release.
In any case, we can participate in various competitions to give playing time to elements that have not had it, or to allow discreet players to express themselves. Thinking that we can win everything is a mistake. Our opponents are progressing, and each has its strengths, especially when well-organized and with a good organizational chart in place.
Royal Rewards
The total prize money for the Arab Cup 2025 is $36.5 million, with the winner receiving $10 million, double the amount of the previous edition. The total amount is distributed among the participating teams, including prizes for finalists, semi-finalists, and eliminated teams. Many countries participating in this Arab Cup do not need the money, so what could be the reason and motivation behind the decisions that give a poor image of this type of competition?
Naturalization: A Questionable Practice
We were surprised by the announcement of the player lists from several Arab countries participating in the tournament, with many elements being naturalized. Why is this the case? The reason and decision belong to these countries, which are seeking easy consecrations that do not reflect the true level of football or other sports in these countries. The temptation of the prizes at stake to reward the winners is significant. However, this practice is not common in European and South American cups, and it is not a sign of progress. There is a difference between elements with verifiable and reliable roots and those brought in by headhunters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Arab Cup is a valuable opportunity for growth and development, but it is essential to approach it with a clear understanding of the motivations and practices of the participating countries. We must prioritize the development of our own players and teams, rather than relying on naturalized players, to ensure a bright future for Arab football.
