Portuguese coach Vítor Pereira, after Al-Shabab’s defeat to Al-Ettifaq, expressed concerns about disparities among Saudi Pro League teams. He highlighted the challenges faced by Al-Shabab, who had to use players out of their natural positions due to a lack of a full squad at the start of the league. Pereira, who had come to the league with enthusiasm and the intention to compete with top clubs, was disheartened by the reality he encountered. He noted the presence of strong teams and teams with no chance of competing, leading to difficult situations for clubs like Al-Shabab.
Despite the tough match and lack of a full squad, Pereira voiced his disappointment at the growing disparities among Saudi Pro League teams. The coach expressed frustration at having to field players out of position and relying on a young bench with an average age of 19 years. He highlighted the challenges faced by clubs who struggle to compete with the stronger teams in the league. Pereira’s comments shed light on the difficulties faced by teams like Al-Shabab and the impact of the growing disparities among Saudi Pro League clubs.
Pereira’s remarks at the post-match press conference demonstrated his disillusionment with the current state of the Saudi Pro League. He had entered the league with high hopes and ambitions to compete at the highest level but was confronted with the harsh reality of the disparities between teams. The coach’s frustrations were evident as he lamented the limitations faced by Al-Shabab and other clubs in the league, who struggle to keep up with the stronger teams. Pereira’s candid comments highlighted the need for greater support and investment in the league to address the growing disparities and promote a more competitive environment.
As Pereira spoke without allowing questions from the journalists, his message was clear: the current state of the Saudi Pro League is concerning, with stark divides between the top teams and those struggling to compete. The coach’s decision to leave the press conference without further elaboration underscored the gravity of the situation and the urgency for action. By drawing attention to the challenges faced by Al-Shabab and other clubs, Pereira emphasized the need for changes to level the playing field and create a more balanced competition in the league.
In conclusion, Vítor Pereira’s remarks following Al-Shabab’s defeat to Al-Ettifaq highlighted the growing disparities among Saudi Pro League teams and the challenges faced by clubs like Al-Shabab. The coach’s frustration at the limitations imposed by a lack of resources and support was palpable, as he criticized the unequal playing field that exists within the league. Pereira’s comments serve as a wake-up call for stakeholders to address the disparities and promote a more competitive environment for all teams in the Saudi Pro League. The coach’s candid assessment of the situation underscores the need for action to level the playing field and ensure a more equitable and sustainable future for the league.