New Al Gharafa coach Pedro Martinez praised the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, saying it was unforgettable thanks to the organisation and the fans who were happy to engage with a new culture.
On Qatar national team's participation in the World Cup, he said that there were a lot of positives to be drawn from it given it was the team's debut in the competition. He stressed the importance of gaining expertise from taking part in the competition.
On QNB Stars League, He said that he looks forward to leading Al Gharafa back to its glory days, and express hope he can reclaim the title they are yet to win since the 2009/2010 season. Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), he said that this league season was special given it coincides with the World Cup Qatar 2022 and the league suspension that was enforced. He added that the stoppage provided him with a good opportunity to get the know the team better.
And about the upcoming Al Duhail confrontation for the eighth round of the league on Jan 4. at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium. Martinez also dismissed the prospect of changing some professional players in conjunction with the opening of the winter transfer window. He stressed the club's desire to be champions.
At the end of his statements to QNA, he directed Martinez, who had several experiences as a player that lasted for about 17 years, most notably with the oldest team in Portugal, Sporting Lisbon, before his retirement in 2004. He promised the fans that the team will do its best to bring the title back.
It should be noted that Al Gharafa team ranks fourth in the QNB Stars League, with 12 points, after seven rounds of three wins, three draws, and one loss.