Brendan Rodgers sang the praises of the country while wearing full traditional attire and holding a gun in a promotional video celebrating Saudi Arabia’s National Day.
Rodgers left Celtic in October and took charge of Saudi Professional League side Al-Qadesi two months later.
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Cadesia gained promotion to the top flight last season and brought in some European talent such as Italian striker Matteo Retegui and former Porto midfielder Otavio, as well as his famous coach at Liverpool. The club has ambitious plans to move to a new stadium later this year.
Rodgers is on a 13-game unbeaten run since joining, while Cadesia are now five points behind leaders Al Nacer, who have Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and Joao Felix, in the title race.
In a video posted on the club’s social media accounts, Rodgers celebrated Foundation Day, a holiday commemorating the founding of the first Saudi state in 1727.
“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to all the people of Saudi Arabia, which has a truly rich heritage and an exciting future,” he said.
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When “Sheikh Brendan” was told he looked “sharp,” he said: “It might look a lot cooler to other people, but I think today is about respecting Saudi Arabia’s founding day and of course I will always wear it respectfully.”
Rogers said Saudi Arabia’s status in football was growing ahead of plans to host the 2034 World Cup.
“The improvement is year-on-year. From watching the league a few years ago to now playing in the league, I’m pretty sure it’s only going to get better and improve over the next few years.
“I’m really impressed with the level of the league, there are some great players, great coaches and that will continue in the coming years.”
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When asked to describe Saudi Arabia, Rogers said: “I only have really positive feelings when it comes to Saudi Arabia. When you change countries and cultures you live in, there are always questions. But I have to say, my first two months here, the people here are so kind, so friendly, so helpful.
“The quality of life has been really good in the few months I’ve been here. Obviously, the weather has helped. But I feel very safe in this country. I’ve traveled all over the world through football, so I would say to anyone, give it a try. It’s been a wonderful experience for me so far and anyone who comes here would be very, very surprised.”