Sergej Milinkovic-Savic has defended Saudi Arabian football following Al Hilal’s unexpected victory over Manchester City in the Club World Cup. The Serbian midfielder, who plays for Al Hilal, addressed critics who have questioned the quality of the Saudi league and national team. His comments come at a time when the country’s football ambitions are under scrutiny.
Al Hilal’s win against Manchester City was a significant upset, as the English side was considered one of the favorites in the tournament. Milinkovic-Savic’s performance in the match played a crucial role in the team’s success, and he has used the opportunity to speak out against the negative perception of Saudi football.
The Serbian international has faced criticism from some quarters for his involvement in a controversial incident during the 2022 World Cup, which led to a suspension. However, he has not shied away from addressing the critics, stating that the focus should be on the team’s achievements rather than individual incidents. His remarks have been seen as a strong statement in support of the Saudi football project.