SINGAPORE: The International Champions Cup (ICC) on July 25-20 here may be only a pre-season event but it will bring out the combative nature of the teams involved.
Former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires said the ICC event, involving Arsenal, Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, is an excellent idea as it will not only be a good warm-up, but also a global tournament which can satisfy the thirst of fans in this region.
And the ex-France midfielder also sent out a “warning” to Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain on the Gunners’ seriousness in fighting for this title.
"Even though it’s just a friendly tournament, that is not a yardstick when players take to the field.
"Surely, Arsenal will play to win and with such great opponents, it is a good chance to get ready for the new season's challenges," said Pires at a press conference during the launch of the ICC at the Artscience Museum in Singapore yesterday.
Other than Pires, Paris Saint Germain’s former defender Maxwell Scherrer and former Atletico Madrid player Jose Luis Perez also attended the function to support their teams.
Maxwell said the pre-season action at a warm climate country and a packed schedule should not pose a problem to the three teams.
"Pre-season matches today have changed much as they are held outside of Europe in a warm climate country like Singapore.
"Teams need to quickly adjust to the climate, and I see it as a challenge to cherish, and a treat to fans who always throw their support behind us.
"And with a large squad, I believe a packed schedule should pose no problems. It will also give the coaches a chance to try out anything they want while playing against the best in Europe."