Ahli need to play four European teams a year, says El-Badri

Ahli assistant coach Hossam El-Badri said that his team requires more interaction with European clubs in order to perform well in international competitions.

El-Badri submitted a report to Ahli’s administration regarding the team’s trip to Japan for the Club World Championship (CWC) in which he highlighted the issue of foreign interaction.

“We need to travel and play 4 or 5 European teams each year to provide the players with the experience of playing abroad,” El-Badri told Filgoal.com on Tuesday.

“I’m sure the vast gap between us and the other teams was apparent in the CWC,” he said.

Ahli lost to Ittihad Jeddah and FC Sydney 1-0 and 2-1 respectively to finish in last place in the CWC that took place in Japan between December 11th and 18th.

“Even though FC Sydney is a newly-established team, they play great football. They are well organized and operate very well on the break, which are all qualities of European football,” he added.

El-Badri said that the Ahli football committee will convene in a few days to discuss his report.

Ahli players were granted a two week vacation and coach Manuel Jose left to Portugal for the holiday period.