Clubs must stop these tours, not FIFA
July 30 -- FIFA's general secretary, Urs Linsi, has had some strong words about European clubs visiting Asia.
Basically, Linsi said the visits of Real Madrid, Manchester United etc. do nothing to benefit Asian football.
All they did was earn the rich European clubs even more money, when that money should be going into the local game here in Asia.
Do you agree?
Personally, I don't agree at all.
I think the visits by European clubs help promote the game on a worldwide scale, and bring the fans closer to the stars of the world game.
A few weeks ago I went to Saitama Stadium for the visits of Hamburg and Barcelona.
The first game was a waste of time, as there was hardly anyone there.
Hamburg, without Takahara, playing in Saitama? Why should anyone be interested in that?
Hamburg playing at Shizuoka Ecopa, with Takahara in the team against his old club Jubilo Iwata...now that would have made more sense.
Barcelona at Saitama was much better.
There was a friendly festival atmosphere on the trains leading to Urawa Misono. Thousands of fans wore Barcelona shirts, and thousands wore the red of Urawa.
Even without the likes of Ronaldinho and Eto'o, Barca fielded a strong team, and the match was reasonable entertainment for the supporters.
I say "reasonable" because I do not like these games anyway.
Football is not about fun and entertainment. It is about passion, tension, where the result is important.
If sponsors have the money to bring teams over, and the fans want to watch, then why criticise it?
Linsi would be far better off criticising the unprofessional behaviour of clubs and leagues around Asia.
There has been so much corruption in recent years, especially in China, why should sponsors throw their money down the drain on local leagues?
The J.League is easily the most efficient, most attractive league in Asia, and has no problems attracting fans, sponsors and TV money.
Fans can vote with their feet and stop attending games like Real Madrid against Verdy or Jubilo.
But if they keep turning up to watch, why should FIFA criticise the concept?
It is up to the clubs and the fans to stop it, not FIFA.
ends
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