Ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes believes that Malaysian football as well as Asian football in general, is on the right track forward, though he claims that several key adjustments need to be made.
The footballing world shifted its focus to Asia last January, when several big name players left Europe to join clubs participating in the Chinese Super League. This includes Chelsea’s Ramires as well as Shakhtar Donetsk’s Alex Teixeira, who flirted with a potential move to Liverpool for large portions of the winter, before making a shocking jump to Jiangsu Suning FC.
The move signals a symbolic shift in momentum, with Asian countries increasing their efforts to break into the global football market. Even in Malaysia for instance, Johor DT became the first Southeast Asian side to clinch the AFC Cup last year, signalling their intention of transforming into a regional powerhouse.
Morientes was quick to stress that these are tangible growth results that should be encouraged, though he does believe that holistic growth will only be possible is grassroots development is prioritized at every level of management.
“It’s true that Asian football is getting better. Look at China, look at India. I was even offered a coaching role in the Indian Super League. Then you have Malaysia as well, everything looks positive,” he told FourthOfficial.com
“But if Asian football, or even Malaysian football for that matter, wants to close the gap with Europe, you have to prioritize youth development. It’s the only way to go forward, there no other ways to do it.
“It’s good to see more money being invested here, but a large chunk of the money needs to be channeled into grassroots program. That’s where you get to shape the basic techniques, inject a specific style of play etc. It’s the perfect platform to build players that can grow on and maybe become excellent players in future,” he added.
The 40 year-old Spaniard retired from professional football in 2010, having played for the likes of Liverpool, Real Madrid, Monaco, Valencia and even Olympique Marseille. He went on to kick-start his coaching career by taking charge of Huracan Valencia’s Youth Academy, before moving to Real Madrid’s Juvenil B team in 2012.
More recently though, Morientes spent 8 months with CF Fuenlabranda in Segunda Division B, leaving them in February 2016. He is currently on a break, though Morientes remains determined to pursue a career in management and even went as far as suggesting that he’ll be open to offers from Asia, as well.
“Football is a big part of me, and I love coaching. I’ve done it for a few years now and I don’t intend to stop. Right now, I’m enjoying life by travelling and meeting great people, but if a good offer comes in, I wouldn’t hesitate to return to management.
“Asia? Yes, I wouldn’t mind. I’m at a stage where I’m open to different experiences, which will better prepare me for tougher jobs in future. Asian football is growing, so why not,” he added.
Morientes was down in Kuala Lumpur recently, to help Astro launch their coverage plans for the upcoming UEFA EURO 2016. As the official and exclusive broadcaster of UEFA EURO 2016 in Malaysia, Astro will be offering all 51 matches LIVE in HD on Astro TV and Astro on the Go via two dedicated Astro SuperSport channels (HD: Channel 841 & 842 and SD: Channel 821 & 822).
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