Former Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes says Al Jazira players will have the chance to put themselves in the shop window of major European clubs when the FIFA Club World Cup is held in the UAE later this year.
The Pride of Abu Dhabi will feature alongside the Galacticos of Real at the tournament, being held in Abu Dhabi from December 6-16.
Henk ten Cate’s side gave themselves a fantastic shot at appearing at the famous tournament after winning last season’s Arabian Gulf League in sensational style – although their place alongside Los Blancos was only guaranteed eight days ago when fellow AGL side Al Ain exited the AFC Champions League at the hands of Al Hilal.
Had they gone on to lift the continental title, the Boss would have replaced Jazira in the showpiece. But they will now feature together with Real superstars Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos and Gareth Bale later this year, with New Zealand’s Auckland City and Mexico’s Pachuca having also confirmed their places.
Three more places remain up for grabs and Morientes believes the tournament provides a particular chance for the likes of Jazira scoring sensation Ali Mabkhout to shine.
“Such an event always has plenty of scouting taking place in the country where it is held, so this gives the chance to the players, especially at Al Jazira, that everyone can see them,” said Morientes, 41, speaking at a La Liga Experiences seminar in the capital yesterday promoting the Club World Cup.
“This is for them a great opportunity and could open a door or a window for them to eventually play in Europe, which would be the best thing for them.”
He also described it a chance for the UAE capital to showcase its ability to hold world-class events.
“The Club World Cup is definitely one of the biggest sporting events in the world this year,” added Morientes, who featured for Real in the inaugural 2000 edition in Brazil, as well as for Liverpool in 2005 when they lost the final to Sao Paulo.
“This gives Abu Dhabi the opportunity to show the world their capacity to host such events. It is of course a challenge but it is a great opportunity to open the UAE and Abu Dhabi to the world, and show how they can host such big events.”
Morientes sang the praises of the tournament that has attracted its critics over the years, although he admitted the UEFA Champions League will always be the biggest prize in club football for Europe’s elite.
He said: “Playing this Club World Cup, if you win it, you are declared the best team in the world. It is the highest accolade a club team can get.
“For Spanish and European teams, winning the Champions League is of course the most important tournament to have. But, having said so, having the chance to play against South American teams, Asian teams and others makes this competition very special.
“It gives you the chance to be nominated as the best team in the world, which is special.”
