Baghdad – IA
Technical analyst and former international player Ali Wahib confirmed that the Football Association’s decision to continue the Iraq Stars League matches while the national team participates in the Gulf Cup tournament is a positive step.
wahib told the (INA), today, Monday: “Postponing the league matches was a negative indicator that affects the course of the competition and its duration is extended illogically, which weakens its quality and competitive impact, so the decision to continue the matches is a distinctive and very good step,” noting. He pointed out that “the Football Association is supposed to develop clear and thoughtful plans, including setting the dates of pleasant matches, stopping periods, and all related matters within a precise and organized agenda.”
He added, “The gulf Cup holds great importance, especially with Iraq’s pivotal role in restoring momentum to this tournament by hosting it and achieving the title,” stressing that “the World Cup remains the most critically important goal during the next stage, while the Gulf cup is an possibility to equip and prepare the players, especially with Some teams, such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar, went to participate in the first teams as part of the search for improved performance after disappointing results in the recent qualifiers.”
Wahib continued, “Iraq must focus on building a new generation of young players capable of representing the national team strongly in the future, especially since there are centers that suffer from the aging of players or the decline in their levels.”
What are the potential benefits of hosting the Gulf Cup for Iraqi football’s future?
Interview: The Future of iraqi Football Amid Gulf Cup Excitement
Editor at Time.news: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ali Wahib, a technical analyst and former international player, to discuss the current state of the Iraqi football scene, especially with the ongoing Gulf Cup tournament.Welcome, Ali!
Q1: Ali, the Football Association decided to continue the Iraq Stars League matches during the Gulf Cup.How do you view this decision?
Ali Wahib: Thank you for having me. I believe the football Association’s decision to continue the Iraq Stars League matches while our national team participates in the Gulf Cup is a positive step. Postponing league matches in the past has negatively impacted the competition, extending its duration illogically, which ultimately weakens its quality and competitive spirit. By maintaining the league, we ensure that players remain active and that the competition retains its intensity.
Q2: That sounds promising! What do you think are the implications of continuing both the league and the Gulf Cup together?
Ali Wahib: Continuing both competitions allows for a more dynamic football environment. It provides valuable experience for players who may not be participating in the Gulf Cup. Additionally, as the Gulf Cup is critical for Iraq, especially with our role in hosting and the potential of clinching the title, maintaining league activity helps build a stronger base for our players. This dual focus can enhance our team’s performance in international contests and help us remain competitive.
Q3: You mentioned the importance of the Gulf Cup and Iraq’s goal for the World Cup. how do these tournaments intersect in terms of preparation?
Ali Wahib: The Gulf cup serves as an excellent chance for player advancement. It’s a platform to experiment with different strategies and player combinations, especially considering some teams like Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar are also strengthening their squads. For Iraq, it’s essential to look towards building a new generation of players capable of representing the national team vigorously in the future, especially as we face aging players in certain positions. The World Cup remains our ultimate goal, and each tournament is a stepping stone in that direction.
Q4: what advice would you give to the Football Association regarding player development and competition scheduling?
ali Wahib: The Football Association should implement clear, well-thought-out plans that include organized schedules for matches and strategic stopping periods. An orderly agenda will not only improve the league’s quality but also allow for a systematic development of young talents. We must focus on cultivating young players who can step into the national team seamlessly. Addressing areas where players’ performance or fitness may be declining is crucial for the longevity and success of our football programs.
Q5: what’s your overall vision for the future of Iraqi football in the context of these developments?
Ali Wahib: I am optimistic about the future of Iraqi football. With proactive steps like continuing the league during the Gulf Cup and prioritizing the development of young players, we create a solid foundation for success at both regional and international levels. By capitalizing on our current opportunities and setting clear goals,I believe we can elevate Iraqi football’s status on the world stage.
Editor at Time.news: Thank you, Ali, for your insights and for sharing your vision for Iraqi football’s future. We look forward to seeing how these developments unfold on the pitch!
Keywords: Iraqi football, Gulf cup, Iraq Stars League, Football Association, player development, World Cup preparation, competitive spirit