Doha, Qatar – Qatari football continues its push for international exposure as Al Sadd midfielder Mustafa Meshaal joins Belgian side KAS Eupen on loan, following a similar move for Al Duhail defender Homam Al-Amin to Spain. These transfers are part of a strategic initiative by the Qatar Football Association (QFA) to develop players ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, providing valuable competitive experience outside the Qatar Stars League. The loan deals are expected to continue as the QFA seeks to prepare a wider pool of talent.
The moves, announced this week, see both players join clubs with existing ties to Qatari investment. KAS Eupen is owned by Qatar Sports Investments, while Cultural y Deportiva Leonesa is majority-owned by the Aspire Zone Foundation. Both players will remain with their respective clubs until the end of the current season.
Qatar Football Players Gain International Experience
The QFA’s decision to loan players abroad is a direct response to the need for increased competitive intensity as Qatar prepares to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While Qatar automatically qualified as host of the 2022 tournament, they will need to earn their place in 2026 through the Asian qualifying process. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in experience between players regularly featuring in international competitions and those who have limited exposure.
Meshaal, 24, is a seasoned player with Al Sadd, having secured four Qatar Stars League titles since joining the club in 2019. He has also represented Qatar on 25 occasions, including being part of the squad that won the AFC Asian Cup in 2023. KAS Eupen highlighted his “good vision of the game and high passing accuracy,” noting his versatility in central midfield.
Al-Amin, a full-back, brings prior experience playing in Europe, having previously played for KAS Eupen. He is a well-established international player, having earned caps since 2019 and participated in major tournaments like the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Concacaf Gold Cup. His return to a familiar European environment could facilitate a quicker adaptation.
Strategic Partnerships and Player Development
The involvement of Qatar Sports Investments and the Aspire Zone Foundation in the ownership of these clubs is not coincidental. These entities have been instrumental in fostering football development in Qatar and are now extending that reach to provide opportunities for Qatari players. This allows for a more structured and supportive environment for players transitioning to foreign leagues.
However, the success of this program hinges on consistent playing time for the loaned players. Simply being present in a different league isn’t enough; regular matches are crucial for development and adaptation. The QFA will likely monitor the players’ progress closely, assessing their performance and impact on their respective teams.
This move also reflects a broader trend in Asian football, with more players seeking opportunities in European leagues to enhance their skills and gain international recognition. Saudi Arabia, for example, has seen a significant influx of talent into its domestic league, but also encourages players to pursue opportunities abroad.
The QFA has indicated that this initial wave of loans will not be limited to established players. The program is also designed to include individuals who may not be consistent starters for their Qatari clubs, offering them a chance to prove themselves in a new setting. This broader approach aims to cultivate a deeper talent pool for future national team selections.
Looking ahead, the QFA is expected to announce further loan agreements in the coming weeks, potentially targeting leagues in other European countries and beyond. The effectiveness of this strategy will become clearer as the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign progresses, and the performance of these players will be a key indicator of the program’s success. The timing of any potential permanent transfers will likely depend on individual player performance and the needs of both their Qatari and European clubs.
The focus remains on building a competitive national team capable of making a significant impact on the global stage. The Qatar Football Association will continue to evaluate opportunities for player development and international exposure as they navigate the challenges of World Cup qualification. FIFA’s official website provides further details on the 2026 World Cup qualification process. KAS Eupen’s website will offer updates on Meshaal’s progress.
