Al-Sadd manager Xavi Hernandez praised his player Akram Afif who won 2019 Asia player of the year award.
Qatari midfielder who was instrumental in his country’s first continental title, secured the award above Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand and Urawa reds center-back Tomoaki Makino.
Afif currently is in international duty with Qatar in Gulf cup and Xavi received the award in behalf of him.
Barcelona legend said at ceremony:”I’m very happy and I’m proud that receive this award in behalf of him.
I think he deserves this award. Akram made differences with Qatar and also helped Al-Sadd to reach AFC Champions league semi-final. It would be great if we reached to the final.
I’m happy that I’m his manager. He is a unbelievable talent and a great player and I’m happy for him.
There is no limit for him. He can plat everywhere but it depends to him, his mentality and enthusiasm.”