In a move reflecting commitment to the growth and exposure of local talent, Kitchee’s interim head coach, Kim Dong-jin, has confirmed the club’s decision to release any of its players selected for the upcoming Hong Kong team’s exhibition match against Inter Miami. Scheduled for February 4, this high-profile game presents a unique opportunity for Hong Kong players to share the pitch with football legends like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets.
Kim’s announcement comes despite the fixture clashing with the Hong Kong Premier League and Kitchee’s own Sapling Cup game against Crownity North District. Emphasizing the significance of the experience, Kim stated, “Participating in a match against world-class players like Messi and Busquets is an invaluable experience for our players. It’s an opportunity that could greatly contribute to their development.”
This supportive stance is echoed across the local football community, with representatives from Lee Man, Tai Po, and BC Rangers also indicating their willingness to release players for the prestigious match. The consensus is clear – the experience of playing against global stars outweighs the cost of missing a league match.
Kitchee has been considering squad reinforcements ahead of a crucial title challenge against Lee Man in February. The recent addition of Uzbekistan striker Sherzod Temirov has already made an impact, with Temirov scoring in his recent appearances. However, the departures of Ogenyi Onazi and Aleksandar Damcevski have opened up potential spots for new talent.
As Kitchee gears up for its last AFC Champions League fixture against Singapore’s Lion City Sailors, Kim aims to field a strong team. The return of key players like goalkeeper Paulo Cesar and striker Kim Shin-wook from injury adds strength to the squad. However, the team faces challenges with the suspension of Mikael Severo and the potential absence of Ruslan Mingazov due to injury.
In preparation for the Asian Cup, Kitchee will also engage in a friendly against Jorn Andersen’s national team. Kim views this as a critical opportunity to test his team against formidable opposition, stating, “Every match in the coming months is crucial, including the Sapling Cup. These games are chances to solidify our playing style and maintain fitness.”
Kitchee’s decision to prioritize player development and exposure on the international stage reflects a growing trend in Hong Kong football, where the opportunity to compete against world-class talent is increasingly valued as a key factor in the growth of the sport locally.
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