KSAsportz report
HONG KONG — Al Qadsiah manager Michel González has emphasized that the upcoming 2025 Saudi Super Cup serves as an essential launchpad for a successful new season. He noted that the only missing element from the tournament is the absence of Al Hilal, which he feels diminishes the event’s showcasing of Saudi Arabia’s top football talent. According to recent statistics, Al Qadsiah finished last season ranked in the top four teams, a position enhanced by their impressive performance throughout the year.
As he prepares for the semi-final showdown against Al Ahli, held in Hong Kong, González expressed confidence and downplayed any sense of intimidation, stating, “Unlike last season, we don’t fear any team.” Despite acknowledging the challenge posed by Al Ahli, he stated, “This tournament is a reward for our efforts last year, and it gives us motivation to continue on the same path. We know the level of the opponent, but we are not afraid.”
González candidly remarked that the tournament features the top four teams from last season but quipped, “The tournament only misses one thing — Al Hilal.” His comments come in light of Al Hilal’s recent decision to withdraw from the competition, which has left many fans and analysts questioning the impact on the tournament’s integrity.
When asked about the implications of facing Al Ahli instead of Al Hilal, the Spanish manager asserted, “Whether it’s Hilal or Ahli, our preparation stays the same. We have top-level international players and are happy to be part of this tournament. Honestly, with Hilal not participating, we should’ve gone straight to the final.”
Regarding Al Ahli’s unexpected invitation to replace Al Hilal, González maintained his focus by stating, “That’s not my job to comment on. My job is to prepare my team; that’s your job as journalists.” His focus on Al Qadsiah’s legacy continued as he reflected on their historic 1994 Asian Cup victory in Hong Kong, expressing ambition to replicate that success, aligned with the team’s previous season’s achievements.
This summer saw rising expectations surrounding Al Qadsiah due to significant investments and player signings. González remarked, “It’s not just about spending money. Some clubs spent far more than us last season but finished below us. It’s about building a team. We have 25 players of high value.” This statement is supported by statistics showing an increase in player market values across the league.
Touching upon the substantial departure of star striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and the arrival of Mateo Retegui, González praised the former, saying, “Aubameyang gave us a lot on and off the pitch. He was great for the group. But the club made a decision for the future by signing Retegui. Big names must deliver big performances. That’s the challenge.”
In defense of Saudi football amid global skepticism, González said, “Many people speak about spending, but what Al Hilal did at the Club World Cup answered all those critics. Some talk without even watching. The competitiveness here is real.” A report revealed that Al Hilal performed exceptionally well during the tournament, further validating González’s claims.
Meanwhile, Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels expressed gratitude for Hong Kong’s warm reception, stating that the team is fully committed to delivering top-notch performances. “The preparation period went well. It was exciting to see our fans waiting at the hotel; it shows the growth of Saudi football,” he said.