Ahmad Hayel

ABU DHABI, July 26: Al-Arabi has officially kicked off its overseas training camp in Abu Dhabi, UAE, ahead of a crucial phase in its season preparations. The camp, which runs until August 8, includes two friendly fixtures—against Hatta on July 31 and Baniyas in early August.

Jordanian assistant coach Ahmad Hayel and Ugandan defender Kenneth Semakula joined the squad earlier this week to reinforce the technical and player lineup.

Following the conclusion of the Abu Dhabi camp, Al-Arabi will travel to the Maldives on August 8 to face Maziya Sports Club in a decisive AFC Challenge Cup playoff match scheduled for August 12 at 3:00 PM (local time) at the National Football Stadium. The winner will advance to the group stage of the competition.

This camp represents the second stage of Al-Arabi’s preseason program, after launching the first phase of training last week under Portuguese head coach Marco Alves, with the majority of players present.

Al-Arabi has secured four new foreign signings: French-Guinean Hassimi Fadiga, Ugandan Kenneth Semakula, and Nigerian duo Ayano Iwala and Christopher John. The club is also in talks to finalize the fifth foreign player spot. Additionally, local talents Hamad Al-Harbi and Aziz Nassari have joined the squad.

Club media coordinator Mishaal Al-Abkal confirmed that all logistical arrangements are progressing smoothly. He noted that the team has been holding daily training sessions, with morning workouts indoors and evening sessions on an outdoor pitch.

Al-Abkal added that the team is awaiting the arrival of a new striker in the coming days, as agreed upon by the club’s foreign player recruitment committee.

By Hasan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff