By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Al Ahly head coach Pitso Mosimane addressed a number of topics including his future in Egypt and the criticism he’s receiving.
The Red Devils started their 2022 Club World Cup journey by overcoming CONCACAF representatives Monterrey, beating them 1-0.
After that, the African Champions had to confront Palmeiras in the semi-finals, but unfortunately, the Brazilians came on top.
As a result, Al Ahly will now be playing Al-Hilal for bronze medals as they will be aiming to repeat last year’s achievement.
Winning Al-Hilal game won’t be an easy task, the Saudi side made an impressive show against UCL champions Chelsea, proving to be a formidable opponent.
Speaking ahead of the Al Hilal game, Mosimane acknowledged the difficulty of the confrontation while addressing various other topics.
“We are not here because of contracts, we are here because we love football,” Pitso said.
“All we need to focus on is doing our jobs, which is winning and doing everything we can on the pitch.”
“Al Ahly is a great club, they know what they are doing. I have to focus on my job and stay humble.”
When asked about the criticism he’s receiving, Mosimane replied: “I don’t know what the media in Egypt say about me, I don’t understand the language. But if you are a coach that doesn’t want to be criticized don’t play in the Club World Cup and don’t take a job in a big club.
“Criticism is part of football, I’ve seen Pep Guardiola being criticized so who am I to avoid it.
“Right now, we are being criticized because we failed to qualify for the Club World Cup final, people are saying you could have done better.
“I believe it can be a motive that pushes you forward, that’s why we need it to improve.
“The fans are always here for us, they support me because I am a part of the team, and I love them.
“I also love this club [Al Ahly] and I believe we will be able to return to the Club World Cup over and over to write history.
“Al-Hilal have a lot of good players, they proved to be a strong team against Chelsea.
“They have players that have previously represented Premier League clubs, but we are not worried. We will be fighting for bronze medals.
“We are proud to be here for the seventh time, but our goal is to come back here and win the title.”
Mosimane’s current deal with Al Ahly expires at the end of October 2022.
“Al Ahly made Mosimane a good deal, and it’s now up to him. He previously said that he wants to keep the position.”
“Al Ahly’s offer is between $160,000 and $165,000 (R2 491 919), with a three-month penalty clause.”
Mosimane joined Ahly at the end of September 2020 and has had a successful tenure, winning the Egyptian Premier League, Egypt Cup and back-to-back CAF Champions League titles.
2022 FIFA Club World Cup Fixtures
Ah Ahly vs AL Hilal @ 15:00.
Chelsea vs. Palmeiras @ 18:30.