‘Miracle maker’ former Nepal boss targets Hong Kong job, outlines five-year plan
Abdullah Al Mutairi says city team need ‘peaceful time’ following Ashley Westwood’s tenure, receives backing from his ex-Sri Lanka player
Abdullah Al Mutairi, the former Nepal and Sri Lanka head coach, has proposed a five-year plan for leading Hong Kong to the 2031 Asian Cup finals, and declared the city team post “is the job I want in my career”.
The 44-year-old, who described himself as “a miracle maker”, has applied for the role on a platform of youth, unity and uncompromising dedication. Roberto Losada is currently in interim charge following Ashley Westwood’s exit last November.
“I’m focused only on football, it’s my life and I don’t care about anything else,” Al Mutairi told the South China Morning Post, adding that he would strengthen ties between the team and fans, introduce youth to an ageing squad and soften the reliance on naturalised players.
He was attracted to the job after seeing footage of “how fans cried” following Hong Kong’s Asian Cup elimination by Singapore at Kai Tak Stadium last November.
“I’m the same when I lose, it’s a very bad feeling,” Al Mutairi said. “I saw so many fans [47,762] in the stadium, this is what I need for success.”
The Kuwaiti received a glowing testimonial from Sri Lanka’s Eastern District forward Waseem Razeek, who said it was “a real shame” Al Mutairi was no longer his international boss.