Anything but high-standard football will not be acceptable from Standard Liege new signing Emad Meteb, even though the Jupiler League is not of a unique caliber. After a series of setbacks as well as incessant attempts from Ahli to talk him out leaving, the 27-year-old completed a move to the Belgian side to realize his long-held dream – joining a European outfit. The first thing Meteb did upon moving to Standard was setting himself a tough target by bragging about his feats with Egypt and Ahli. "In Egypt, I won everything, victory is always my objective. So I hope to achieve major successes with Standard in the league and in Europe as well," he said after the deal went through. Without a doubt Meteb is a decorated player, having won the African Cup of Nations three times, not to mention a host of local and continental titles with Ahli. But his statements have led to high expectations that he now has to live up to, and logically speaking, quick success is not guaranteed for the former Ahli prodigy. Meteb's adventure at Standard will be his first-ever on the Old Continent. His only experience outside his boyhood club Ahli was a year-long loan stint with Ittihad Jeddah in the 2008-2009 season. He will need some time to adapt to a European community and overcome several obstacles, such as the language barrier, cold weather, new customs and so forth. Moreover, Meteb is likely to face a fitness battle because he did not play regularly last term, thanks to a succession of injuries.
Meteb's adventure at Standard will be his first-ever in Europe. His only experience outside his boyhood club Ahli was a year-long loan with Ittihad Jeddah in the 2008-2009 season. He will be ready for the start of next season but will most probably need quite a while to reach his peak form. Hassan's Image Ahmed Hassan's honorable image in Belgium poses extra pressure on Meteb's shoulders. Egypt skipper Hassan was worshiped by Anderlecht's fans for his scintillating and consistent performances throughout his magnificent two-year spell at the Belgian giants. The veteran midfielder stamped his mark on the Jupiler League and is deemed one the best Egyptian footballers who plied their trade abroad. Comparisons will definitely be drawn between Meteb and Hassan. Standard's fans are certainly looking forward to seeing Meteb become as impressive as his compatriot Hassan, and that will not be easy to accomplish. The supporters of the Liege-based team are also expected not to be very patient. Standard, who won the Belgian league in the 2008-2009 season, finished their last domestic campaign at a low ebb in the middle of the table, so amends have to be made.
