The 2021 Arab Cup, hosted by Qatar with resounding success ahead of the 2022 World Cup, provided a unique platform not only for football competition between Arab national teams, but also for showcasing local coaching talent. Amidst the increasing reliance on foreign expertise in the world of football, several national teams stood out by placing their faith in local coaches – a strategic decision reflecting the confidence of their federations in the ability of their own to lead the team on a major continental stage.
Historical background and importance of the tournament
The Arab Cup dates back to 1963, but it suffered long periods of inactivity, which diminished its appeal. However, its return under the auspices of FIFA in the 2021 edition gave it a global dimension and exceptional importance. Held from November 30 to December 18, 2021, with the participation of 16 Arab national teams, the tournament served as a true test of Qatar's facilities and infrastructure before hosting the biggest football event, the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The tournament provided an opportunity for Arab teams to compete at the highest level, gauge their readiness, and give local players a chance to prove their abilities.
A successful bet on national talents
In the 2021 edition, several national teams went against the grain and opted to rely on local coaches, a move that proved remarkably successful. The most prominent example was the Algerian national team, which fielded a squad composed of local players and those active in Arab leagues, under the guidance of their former star, Madjid Bougherra. Bougherra managed to create a cohesive and tactically astute team, successfully leading the "Desert Warriors" to a well-deserved title after defeating Tunisia in the final, providing conclusive proof that a local coach is capable of achieving major successes.
Other honorable examples
Bouguerra's success was not an isolated case. National coach Mondher Kebaier led Tunisia to the final, delivering strong performances throughout the tournament. Morocco also impressed under national coach Hussein Ammouta, who relied on a squad of local players and displayed high technical skill before being eliminated in the quarterfinals on penalties by Algeria in a historic match. This trend towards national coaches was not limited to North African teams; it was also a choice for other national teams seeking to build their own distinct footballing identity.
Future impact on Arab football
The success of the national teams led by local coaches in the 2021 Arab Cup sent a powerful message to football federations across the region. This experience proved that investing in, developing, and empowering local talent can be fruitful, and may even be more effective than hiring a foreign coach who might need considerable time to adapt to the culture and mentality of Arab players. This success is expected to encourage more opportunities for local coaches in the future, contributing to the comprehensive and sustainable development of Arab football.
