Recently, 41-year-old Dutch football legend Wesley Sneijder gave an interview to Camel Live, touching on various topics about himself.
What have you been doing since retiring, and do you plan to move into coaching?
I’ve been enjoying life after retirement, spending more time with my family, working on personal projects, and attending events with legends from many countries.
The idea of becoming a football coach has crossed my mind. I’ve done some coaching work with the Dutch Football Association, but I’m not in a hurry. If the right opportunity comes along—especially if it feels meaningful—I’ll definitely consider it.
What do you think of the revamped Club World Cup?
I think it’s an interesting tournament. More teams participating means clubs outside Europe get more visibility, which is important. Football is global, and fans deserve to see more diversity at the highest level. I watched some Club World Cup games in Miami, and they were fantastic.
Inter Milan didn’t perform well in the Club World Cup, disappointing their fans. Are you worried about the team after Simone Inzaghi’s departure?
Inter Milan will always be in my heart. Of course, I worry when the team goes through tough times. Inzaghi built something special at Inter, so any transition will take time, but the club has a big heart—they’ll get through it.
What’s your take on Inzaghi leaving Inter for Al Hilal?
When a coach leaves a club where they’ve found success, emotions always run high, especially after achieving something big. I understand the fans’ frustration, but football is also a business. Inzaghi saw a new challenge at Al Hilal, and even if it’s painful, we have to respect his decision. I wish my good friend Cristian Chivu, Inter’s current manager, all the best.
Speaking of Al Hilal, how did you rate their Club World Cup performance? Can we say Saudi clubs can now compete with European giants?
Al Hilal showed great quality in the Club World Cup. I think Saudi clubs are growing rapidly in strength. They haven’t reached the level of Europe’s top clubs yet, but the gap is narrowing. Their ambition is clear.
What do you think about Arab teams participating in the Club World Cup?
I’ve followed Egyptian clubs for years—they always compete with great enthusiasm. They usually perform well in international competitions, making Africa and the Arab world proud.
On your time at Real Madrid
That period at Real Madrid was complicated. Personal issues, injuries, changes in the coaching staff, and shifts in the club’s direction all intertwined. I had some great moments there, but it was clear that staying long-term wasn’t right for me.
Your thoughts on Real Madrid’s current manager, Xabi Alonso
Alonso has a clear mind. Having played alongside him, I saw firsthand how special he is. I think he can succeed at Real Madrid. He knows the club, understands the pressure, and has fresh, unique ideas. Based on what he’s done at Bayer Leverkusen, I have full confidence in him.
But he’ll need to handle the ego issues among players. Top players need both the right structure to support them and a willingness to sacrifice. If they play for the team rather than themselves, Real Madrid will be unstoppable. It all depends on whether he can make everything click.
Your views on the Ballon d’Or
Honestly, it still upsets me to this day. I thought I had an incredible year: I won the Champions League, the domestic double, and reached the World Cup final. I felt I’d given my absolute best. Messi won it, and he’s truly a great player. But the fact that people still remember my 2010 performance shows they saw my effort—and that’s what matters most.
Do you think the Ballon d’Or doesn’t always go to the best player?
Yes, it doesn’t. Sometimes your popularity or the club you play for plays a role. Players like Franck Ribéry in 2013, or even Robert Lewandowski in 2020, deserved it too.
Advice for Yamal
Yamal is incredibly talented and has huge potential, but he’s so young. Talent matters, but mindset and discipline are just as important. If he stays focused and doesn’t get distracted by external factors, he’ll achieve great things.
After years of consistent performances, can Mohamed Salah be considered one of football’s greatest players?
Without a doubt, Salah can be ranked among football’s all-time greats. He’s shown extraordinary talent and consistency at the highest level. His pace, technique, and goalscoring ability prove he’s one of the best of his generation.
Among Salah, Achraf Hakimi, and Mostafa Mohamed, who was the best African player this season?
All three had strong seasons. Salah continues to perform at the top level, while Hakimi’s speed and offensive versatility are impressive. Mohamed is an emerging young talent who’s made huge progress. If I had to pick one, Salah’s experience and sustained impact give him a slight edge.
How would you describe José Mourinho? Is he the greatest coach in history?
For me, yes. What we achieved together at Inter in 2010 was historic. Mourinho made us believe we could beat any team. He’s more than a coach—he’s a leader. I’ll always respect him.
