DOHA: Spanish soccer icon Raul Gonzalez (pictured) is pleased with his performances and that of Al Sadd, a club he helped win the Qatar Stars League (QSL) title last month.
Raul, 35, signed a one-year deal with Al Sadd exactly a year ago.
“I am happy with the way I have played,” Raul said. “I am happy with our season. Al Sadd did well.
“I have enjoyed my time in Qatar,” he said without elaborating if he would renew his contract.
“This has been a happy season for me,” the former Real Madrid star said.
Ever since he was given the captain’s armband by coach Hussein Amute, Raul has been in inspirational form for his side.
Al Sadd last month dethroned Lekhwiya as QSL champions and then reached the Heir Apparent Cup final which they lost to Lekhwiya.
Today, Al Sadd take on Al Rayyan in the Emir Cup final at Khalifa International Stadium.
“This has been an important season for Al Sadd and I am happy to be part of this team,” Raul said.
Amute, the Al Sadd coach, said a good start to their QSL season helped the Doha giants gather momentum and purpose to their successful title race.
“Last year (2011-12 season) it was a different but this season, we had an amazing start in September (2012),” Amute said.
“We were undefeated in the first nine matches of the QSL. From September last year to April this year, we played very good football,” the Al Sadd coach said.
“So I don’t want to add pressure on my players (ahead of the Emir Cup final),” he said.
“The players are very motivated to go and win this trophy,” the former Emir Cup winner with Al Sadd added.
The match kicks-off at 6:45pm. THE PENINSULA
