Ahmed Hassan joined a programme on Turkey's international
radio station Best FM, and talked to Turkish fans for
the first time about his days in Belgium. The Egypt
captain hinted in this exclusive translation by EgyptianPlayers.com,
that he has made a step down by moving to Belgium, and
even indicated regret at making the move to Anderlecht!
It was clear to see that Hassan has missed
Turkey very much, and he talked very enthusiastically
in his Turkish.
The ex-Besiktas player said: "There are two teams
in Belgium who can fight for the Championship. The other
teams have no chance to beat them. We race with one
team and there is no competition in the league. In Turkey,
we were in need to beat other clubs' points. All the
matches are easy in Belgium for big teams.
"The Turkish League is much stronger than here."
Hassan continued to praise Turkey, comparing it to
Egypt. "I love Turkish football fans. They are
like Egyptians. Turks live football the whole week.
But Belgians live football only on match-days. We play
football in the match and then don't talk about it.
There is no football atmosphere here.
In Egypt and Turkey, as their fans are similar, the
people always support their teams and rivalty is very
important."
"I was very happy in Turkey. There was a very big interest
in me. I tried to stay but my contract finished and no-one
offered me a new contract. I had to choose one of the offers
from the other clubs and Anderlecht's was the most attractive.
"I had no problem at Besiktas and also with Jean Tigana.
But Tigana is an inexperienced manager; big clubs such as
Besiktas need experienced managers.
"Besiktas have a chance to be champions but it is certain
that Fenerbahce are the favourites with their squad and results."
He concluded: "I will never forget Turkey. I always
say that Turkey is my second country after Egypt. They love
me very much like I love them.
"Salam to all my fans in Turkey. I've missed them..."
More soon on EgyptianPlayers.com..
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