Berbatov urges more Asian players to get on board to play abroad
PETALING JAYA: Former Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur striker Dimitar Berbatov has encouraged Asian footballers to dream bigger and push themselves to compete in top-tier European leagues - including the Premier League - as he reflected on his admiration for Asian football culture and his own experiences in global football.
Berbatov, speaking before the start of the Liga 7x7 All-Stars tournament at the Cheras Football Stadium yesterday, praised the enthusiasm for the game in the region and called on young players to embrace the challenge of playing abroad.
"I used to play with Park Ji-sung at Manchester United, and he's like a god in this part of the world," said the Bulgarian legend.
"I wish more players from here would go abroad and play in the big European clubs. It's good for them, it's good for their country, and it helps raise the reputation of Asian football globally."
Berbatov emphasised that technical ability and mental strength are crucial qualities for young players looking to break through at the highest levels.
"To become a good player, you need ambition, focus, and yes - a bit of stubbornness - especially when things get tough. It's not easy, but that's what separates the great from the good.'
Berbatov also took time to praise the rising popularity of small-sided football formats, such as five-a-side and seven-a-side tournaments that are growing rapidly around the world, including across Asia.
"I always love coming back here. This is already my second time this year. When it's about football - and when you love football - even if we are a bit older now, we still want to play. It's a great idea, and we're here to entertain and have fun."
He noted that small-sided football has always been popular in Bulgaria, where he grew up playing in tight spaces that helped him develop the famed technical skill that defined his career.
"Formats like this help promote technical ability. The game is quicker, the spaces are tighter - it's great for developing control and vision. Maybe some of the rules today are a bit extreme,' he joked.
"But I'll get to experience them myself."
When asked about who he believes will win the Premier League title this coming season, Berbatov remained diplomatic but admitted the competition will be intense.
"I want to say Manchester United, of course. And Tottenham - I used to play for both. But it will be difficult.
"Liverpool are always contenders. Manchester City - for sure. There are a lot of strong teams that will fight for it. But honestly, I don't know who will win. We'll see."
As one of the Premier League's most elegant forwards of his generation, Berbatov now uses his platform to promote football globally - and he believes the next big star could easily emerge from Asia, if players here are willing to take the leap.
"If you have the talent, go abroad. Test yourself. That's how you grow and that's how the world sees what you can do."
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