Des Buckingham, previously in charge at Oxford United, has spoken about the “caliber” he’s anticipating in his new role within the Saudi Pro League.
The head coach, who hails from Oxford, has recently taken over as Al Kholood’s head coach. This marks the first Saudi club to be fully owned by overseas investors, namely The Harburg Group, led by American businessman Ben Harburg.
Buckingham steps into the shoes of Noureddine Zekri, the former manager, with Cosmin Contra having filled an interim role for 20 days in the interim.
Buckingham draws parallels between the Saudi Pro League and the Premier League
The incoming manager is eager for the challenges ahead, especially the prospect of facing coaches such as Simone Inzaghi, and players like Cristiano Ronaldo – who is, in fact, just two days older than Buckingham.
However, the 40-year-old will not immediately have access to such extensive resources. Currently, the most recognized player in his squad among English fans is midfielder John Buckley, who played 147 games for Blackburn Rovers prior to his move to Saudi this year.
“I look at the managers present in the league this year. We’ve got Inzaghi, Laurent Blanc, Jorge Jesus,” Buckingham mentioned on the BBC’s The Dub podcast. “Then when considering some of the players, the notable one is Ronaldo, in addition to Mane, Benzema, Nunez, Coman, Neves. Therefore, regarding the quality attracted and the quality it will continue to attract, it is an exciting prospect.”
“I believe certain teams here have a forward line that would not seem out of place in the Premier League.”
Buckingham further commented on his desire to challenge himself in “the most demanding arena” available, to fully test his coaching skills, which he anticipates the Saudi Pro League offering him.
He concluded: “There are many elements, including cultural, religious, and footballing aspects, that I believe will make me a better coach, but more importantly, a better person, in this fourth country I’ve worked in.”
In the opinion of FourFourTwo, there is a degree of cynicism towards European players and managers relocating to Saudi for their careers, particularly when the substantial financial benefits are widely known.
However, international management is a strength of Buckingham, with a proven record in various locations not renowned for high salaries.
Furthermore, considering Oxford is likely the best team he has managed so far, facing coaches like Inzaghi, and the highly skilled players he mentioned, will provide him with valuable experience, regardless of his compensation.
He will undoubtedly have a challenging task ahead, facing these stars as opponents rather than coaching them.
