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Former France striker Louis Saha has said that taking FIFA World Cup to new regions will benefit the development of the game around the world. |
Part of the France squad that reached the final of the 2006 FIFA World Cup Germany, Saha was a player at what was widely regarded as one of the most successful tournaments in history.
The former Manchester United, Fulham, and Everton striker told www.sc.qa: “Every country should be allowed to host a big competition because it brings in value, economic benefits, and simply because every continent should be given the chance. I think it will be a politically strong message to bring the World Cup to Qatar because it’s a universal sport. I’m very pleased to see that Qatar will host the World Cup because it’s a massive event.”
The striker, who after retiring opened his own sports consultancy group, added that a compact tournament would only add to Qatar’s appeal as a host. “It’s one of the advantages. The World Cup is a beautiful moment for every country. Everyone will be watching, and the host country needs it to remain a beautiful event. I’m pretty sure the country (Qatar) will be able to do that. There’s so much support from all over the world and I’m sure that come 2022 others will want to help make it a beautiful World Cup,” he said.
Although not a first time visitor to Qatar, it was the first time the quick-footed forward had been to Aspire Academy.
“When you see pictures you think this could be an interesting place, but once you’re here and see it with your own eyes I can say it’s one of the best centres I’ve ever seen. ASPETAR sports hospital was also very impressive,” said Saha.
The Frenchman’s new initiative, AXIS 10, is a sports consultancy group which he founded together with former 1.FC Köln defender Dieter Prestin earlier this year.
“Sometimes it can be very competitive in the football world. You must be really aware that you’re getting the best advice at that stage and that’s what AXIS is doing. It includes all the right people,” he added, mentioning the likes of other footballing greats such as Didier Drogba, Phil Neville and Robert Pires who are all supporting Saha’s new project.
