Former Real Madrid Star Michel Salgado Arrives in Kurdistan for International Championship

SULAYMANIYAH — Former Spanish national and Real Madrid football icon Michel Salgado arrived in Sulaymaniyah on Thursday, leading the delegation from Emirati club Fursan Hispania FC, or Spanish Knights. Salgado expressed his enthusiasm about exploring Kurdistan and its football culture during his visit.

In an interview with 964media, Salgado shared his excitement about his first trip to the region. “I am thrilled to be visiting Sulaymaniyah and Kurdistan,” he said, noting that he had previously received an invitation to Erbil, which he had to decline. “This time, I’m here and eager to learn more about football in Kurdistan and explore its cities.”

Salgado, currently managing the Spanish Knights team, also reflected on his experiences playing in Basra and attending various Iraqi football matches. “I know Iraqi football is strong, and they have a formidable international team,” he said. “The league we are participating in presents a significant challenge and will be demanding.”

The Sulaymaniyah International Championship kicked off on Thursday, featuring four teams: Iraqi clubs Peshmerga, Northern Gas, Etisalat, and the Emirati Fursan Hispania. Now in its second year, the friendly tournament is held in Sulaymaniyah, with Salgado’s team scheduled to train at the University Stadium.

The tournament began with a match between Etisalat and Northern Gas at 4 p.m. on Thursday. The Spanish Knights are set to face Peshmerga on Friday at the University Stadium, with the winner advancing to the finals.