Football icons Paolo Maldini and David Villa made a recent visit to Jeddah, the host city for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup Saudi Arabia 2023™. As former champions of the event, they expressed their admiration for the rapid development of football in Saudi Arabia, attributing this success to the passionate fan base in the country. Despite acknowledging the significant challenge of hosting such a prestigious tournament, they expressed confidence that FIFA will be impressed with the offerings of the Kingdom.
Maldini and Villa, both esteemed figures in the world of football, journeyed to Jeddah to engage with fans and share their insights on Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global football. They lauded the Saudi Professional League and the overall football infrastructure, emphasizing the considerable changes they have witnessed during their visits to the country.
Speaking of the fervor for football in Saudi Arabia, Maldini remarked, “Hosting a tournament like the FIFA Club World Cup™ is a substantial undertaking. FIFA’s stringent standards for organizing such an event are well known, but given the passion displayed here [in Saudi Arabia], I am confident they will find it here.” He also noted the significant transformations witnessed in the country over the years and expressed his belief in making the tournament one of the most prestigious worldwide, all due to the passionate fans in Saudi Arabia.
Villa echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the authentic passion for football among Saudis, both locally and globally. He underlined the significance of hosting the FIFA Club World Cup™ in light of the swift progress of the Saudi League and football in the region. The former football star emphasized the importance of prioritizing the fans and their love for the game, underscoring the significance of Saudi Arabia hosting such a prestigious tournament.
The tournament, scheduled for December 12-22, will witness the champions of the six continental federations, alongside Al-Ittihad, the domestic champions of Saudi Arabia, vying for the coveted title. The event is expected to be a true celebration of football, showcasing the talent and enthusiasm of players and fans alike.
Maldini and Villa’s acknowledgment of Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning prominence in football is a significant indicator of the Kingdom’s rapid advancement in the sport. With the FIFA Club World Cup Saudi Arabia 2023™ serving as a platform to showcase this progress, it is evident that the country is on its way to becoming a notable figure in the global football landscape. The fervor and commitment of Saudi football fans, combined with the country’s evolving football infrastructure, undoubtedly sets the stage for a bright future in the world of football.