Former Cameroon international and four-time African Player of the Year Samuel Eto’o is one of the most decorated players in world football. He has three UEFA Champions League winners’ medals and won four league titles while playing for FC Barcelona and Inter Milan. Having appeared at four FIFA World Cup tournaments, and after a glittering career spanning more than 20 years, he announced his retirement in September 2019.
Eto’o, who became an official ambassador for the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, spoke to sc.qa.
What do you think fans can expect in 2022 FIFA World Cup?
When fans arrive in Qatar for the World Cup they will find themselves in a very beautiful country, rich with traditions and culture, and a totally unique setting for the tournament. I can say from first-hand experience the temperature at the time of year the tournament is scheduled for will be perfect for watching football, for playing football and also for relaxing by the beach! So fans will be able to enjoy many things away from the stadiums also, and spend their holidays in a very beautiful country.
You played in the first FIFA World Cup in Africa. How do you think Qatar will stamp its own identity on the first edition in the Arab world?
It is true that I was fortunate enough to play in the first World Cup in Africa. Although we as a team did not progress as far as we had hoped, it was a memorable experience – not just for Cameroon or the hosts South Africa, but for the whole continent. I’ve always believed football is a game for everyone, and therefore the World Cup should visit every region of the world. I was delighted to see the Middle East given the opportunity to host in 2022.
Qatar is a small country, but it stands out because it is so different from all others. It’s a great place to live or to visit, you feel very safe and the beaches are incredible – so as well as all the football, people will be able to enjoy a holiday too!
What is your favourite FIFA World Cup memory both as a player and as a fan?
My favourite memory of a World Cup is my first experience, in France in 1998. I was just a kid who discovered this big and beautiful football festival – the biggest in the world. It was of course my first experience of attending a World Cup, and I was doing it as a player representing my country. I could not have been more proud and excited. I managed to play in the game against Italy, and although we did not get the result we wanted it was an experience I will never forget. It’s incredible to think that was over 20 years ago now! (SC.qa)
