There were issues behind the scenes, nonetheless. The Saudi organisers exerted a vice-like grip over arrangements, with a well-placed source telling the Post: “They were very hands-on, everything was very last-minute, it was so difficult.”
There was no engagement with fans, while local journalists were not allowed to ask press conference questions in their native tongue. No Cantonese translation was provided. One reporter said he felt “completely disrespected” by organisers.
Another source said the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) was unhappy that their Saudi counterparts announced the event before an agreement was finalised.
The HKFA had closer involvement than anticipated, largely because of the inexperience of the local promoter, Sum KM Sport. The company was established this year as an offshoot of Sum Supreme Media, which specialises in concerts.
https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3323088/english-premier-league-clubs-hong-kong-again-talks-open-revive-asia-trophy