England coach Gareth Southgate said that he would not remain silent and would continue to voice his concerns about issues in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup. Various issues and controversies have often surrounded the process of organizing the 2022 World Cup, right since Qatar was appointed as host in last year 2010.
Issues about the human rights of immigrant workers often receive special attention from the media and even the countries participating in the 2022 World Cup. Gianni Infantino, as the president of FIFA, had sent a letter to the federation leaders of the 32 World Cup participants so that in the tournament, all teams would focus solely on football aspect.
However, the letter from FIFA will not silence Gareth Southgate’s voice. The England coach admitted that he would continue to answer questions about humanitarian issues that occurred during the tournament. In fact, Southgate admitted that he was disappointed with FIFA’s move to send the letter and considered that the world football federation wanted to silence the voices of the participating countries.
“I’m sad, I’d be disappointed if something happened and I can’t do anything about it,” Southgate said. “But I will choose whether I speak or not, and I’m sure the players feel the same way as me. So, I don’t think our stance will change because of the (FIFA) letter,” said the 52-year-old coach.
Even so, Southgate also ensured that England will make football the main focus. “We will also focus on football, we have to prepare the team well and make sure our energy is focused on football,” said Southgate. “But when we are asked about the issue, we will answer the question and speak up, which is what we will do.”
“We are in a position where we have influence on society and we will try to use that influence to speak the truth,” said the former Middlesbrough manager. “So we’re not going to stop doing that, but there will be moments where we have to make sure our focus is in a certain place as well.”
England captain Harry Kane will continue to wear the special captain’s armband to voice his anti-discrimination campaign when he plays for England in Qatar. England are in Group B at the 2022 World Cup along with the United States, Iran and Wales. The Three Lions will start their first match against Iran on Monday (11/21/2022)
