Amid the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, several European managers have raised concerns over loosing key players.
Tottenham Hotspurs manager Postecoglou among several managers seems not happy with the development but denies any intended future actions from the club.
The gaffer vehemently dismissed the suggestion that fast forward, the club might consider not bringing in African and Asian players to the club due to players absence for mid season tournaments.
Loosing key players such as Yves Baissouma, Pape Matar Sarr and Heung-min Son for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament and Asian Cup respectively, Postecoglou admit their absence may affect the performance of his team. “I’d hate for that to be the case because you’d miss out on some fantastic talent,” he said.
He continue to emphasize on the importance of such international football and richness it brings to the every team and personally to the players involved by highlighting the professional growth and experience while representing their nations as well stressing the deep-rooted connection they have with their respective countries.
As he acknowledged the importance of these competitions, he still raises challenges to the timing. “I love international football, I think it’s important. I don’t like the way the calendar has been crammed, but the tournaments they are going to now are significant tournaments.
This is where they were brought up. This is where a lot of who they are today comes from, and when they go and represent their country and put their shirt on, it’s not just another game of football for them.”
While acknowledging the impact of these international competitions on squad dynamics, the Tottenham boss remained steadfast in his support for players representing their nations.
“I would never rule out somebody because they’re going to represent their country. I think representing your country helps a player develop both professionally and personally,” he affirmed.
International duties are pride moment every players or sports athletes deemed important at every level representing their nations which can not be taken away from them.