NEW JERSEY. Taha Ali has been able to show off on the biggest football stage.
Now the midfielder talks about the World Cup adventure, what he thinks of Malmö FF’s new coach, the answer if he will be there against Degerfors on Sunday and the future.
– There is interest. If there’s ever a time I’m going to be sold, it’s now, he says.
Taha Ali was one of the last players to make Graham Potter’s World Cup squad. The 28-year-old started both against Tunisia and against France, but remained on the bench for the entire match against the Netherlands.
During Sweden’s World Cup adventure, it was a disappointed MFF star who met the press in the mixed zone. But while he was unhappy with the loss to France, he was all the more pleased with the overall World Cup adventure.
– We were calculated in the group and then we moved on. We also gave France a game. Of course, it’s sad that we lose, but we have to understand that it’s the favorite in the tournament we’re also facing, he says.
How do you sum up the WC tournament for yourself?
– The best month of my career, without a doubt. I’ve never been through anything like this. Just being measured against the best, it’s been absolutely incredible and an incredible environment to be in.
How was the match against France?
– Very special. Facing the best nation in the world. But of course it’s sad that we lost.
How do you feel about your own performance?
– It feels strange to talk about what you do well in the match after a loss, but it felt natural to come in. I tried to contribute energy and do my thing. It is difficult to create pressure against a team like France.
What do you think it might mean in terms of changing clubs, given that you got playing time during the World Cup?
– I don’t know, maybe it’s positive. It should be, Ali says with a laugh.
Could it be something this summer?
– I don’t actually know. I have a contract that expires now after the season. If there’s ever a time I’m going to be sold, it’s probably now.
Have you heard anything about interest?
– Yes, there is interest. But nothing concrete has come in.
What will it be like to say goodbye to the team?
– No, so boring of course. It has been my best month. There has been a great atmosphere in the team and I have really enjoyed every day here during the WC.
Are you at Stora Valla on Sunday when you meet Degerfors with Malmö FF?
– We’ll see. I might have severe jet lag when I get home.
When are you going home?
– I don’t know, but it will be on Wednesday or Thursday.
What do you know about your new coach Gaute Helstrup?
– Yes, it’s fun. Glad it has settled down, it feels like it has been the big issue in Malmö.
What do you know about him?
– I don’t know much, only what you have read.
