In an exclusive interview with fellow countryman Sasha Pisani, Muscat said bluntly, "Success is not only symbolized by trophies, but teamwork is equally indispensable." This statement reveals his deep understanding of soccer championships and teamwork. In his eyes, the charm of soccer lies in creating greatness beyond the game, and he is undoubtedly a formidable opponent as the coach of a Chinese Super League champion team.
Looking ahead to the coming year, the landscape of the Chinese Super League may be in flux. Shanghai Seaport is aiming to defend its title, while Shandong Taishan is determined to reclaim its former glory, not only in the league, but also in the cup. Shanghai Shenhua, coached by a new manager, is also ambitious, hoping to achieve another success in the cup and no regrets in the league. In addition, teams such as Zhejiang, Chengdu Rongcheng and Beijing Guoan, the third-place finishers in the Chinese Super League, are also ambitious and do not want to be a foil for others. Next year, the competition in the Chinese Super League will be even hotter and the excitement level will be further enhanced.
Four teams in the Chinese Super League are on the verge of a managerial change, and if Lao Cui fails to make it, then there will be a major change of heart. The four teams are Shanghai Harbor, Shanghai Shenhua, Wuhan Sanzhen and Henan. Although Dalian People has been relegated, but whether it can return to the Super League through the access mechanism is still in doubt, the head coach Xie Hui to stay in the possibility is not high. Currently, Dalian Ren is regarded as a relegation team.
Wu Jingui led Shanghai Shenhua to win the AFC Cup, but did not get special treatment for it. According to the Russian media, former Russian national team boss Slutsky will take over the coaching of Shanghai Shenhua, and both sides have signed a contract and are expected to arrive in Shanghai at the end of December. Wuhan Sanzhen failed to successfully defend their title, Gao Hatake Mian is feared to be dismissed. According to the Daily News, Sanzhen is interested in inviting former Jeju United manager Nam Ki-il to take over the coaching reins. The Henan club is also interested in hiring Korean coach Choi Yong-soo.
Muscat, speaking publicly for the first time since taking over at Seaport, revealed that he had been in contact with other clubs, but ultimately chose Seaport and signed a '1+1' year contract, saying: "I decided to join Seaport after frank discussions with the sporting director and general manager. He said: "I decided to join Seaport after frank discussions with the Sporting Director, General Manager and Chairman, and on November 30th, representatives from Seaport traveled to Japan to negotiate a 60-minute meeting that lasted nearly four hours, reviewing my playing history and even mentioning details that I had forgotten... ..."
Muscat was impressed with Harbour's recruitment efforts, stating, "They contacted me through my profile and discussed in depth the style of soccer I adhere to, which presents us with the opportunity to showcase overall soccer." He added, "I am eager to win a new championship in a foreign country and play our own soccer. Although the contract is challenging, it is certainly a great opportunity in a coaching career."
