How can Wilhelm best prepare for any future negotiations in the Middle East on behalf of his football clients? An own goal The taxi arrived at the impressive mansion in Faqra and I made my way through the blistering sun towards the entrance. I was met by two servants and directed to Mr. Haider’s room. He had faxed me a contract, the terms of which were ridiculously low, and I was determined to get a better deal for my client.

A peek at my watch revealed it was 11.30. I’d arrived just in time, despite the flight delays at Frankfurt and the queues at Beirut airport. In front of Haider’s door I cleared my throat, tightened my tie, gathered all my courage and entered the room. ‘Mr. Haider, I am delighted to meet you’, I said, rather too exuberantly.

‘Ahlan Wilhelm, welcome my friend,’ said Haider. ‘I just have to say goodbye to my important visitors. Please make yourself at home while you’re waiting.’

A servant led me to a large room where there were two men and, in the far corner, a beautiful oriental woman. I sat down in a chair and waited for Mr. Haider. An elaborate clock chimed twelve, but there was still no sign of him. By now the other three were thoroughly enjoying their lunch, which I had refused out of politeness. To keep my nerves steady I had only accepted a glass of arak. By 12.15 my patience had started to desert me. I was going to be too late for my next meeting. How could I trust Mr. Haider if he had already broken his promise beforehand?

Eventually, at 12.30, Mr. Haider entered the room. He looked extremely relaxed in his traditional dress and I jumped up to greet him. Before approaching me he first kissed both men and had a brief conversation with the woman. I had prepared myself well for this moment. I gave him a firm handshake and seated myself.

‘Ahlan Wilhelm, welcome to Lebanon,’ he said. Looking at the table, he added: ‘I hope you enjoyed your delicious lunch with my beloved sons, Alain and Elie, and of course with my habibi, Charlotte.’