Alves welcomes a player before the start of training.

KUWAIT CITY, July 16: Al-Arabi strengthened its squad ahead of the new season by signing two key foreign players: Ugandan international Kenneth Simakola and French-Guinean midfielder Hassimi Fadiga. They join the club’s existing foreign professionals, Nigerians Aiyanu Iwuala and Christopher John. Meanwhile, negotiations are underway with Jordanian international Ali Al-Alwan, who has also attracted interest from Iraqi club Al-Zawraa.

Simakola, 22, played last season for Tunisia’s Club Africain and has experience with several African clubs, including Villa SC, BUL FC, Gaddafi FC, and Sopuya United. Primarily a defensive midfielder, he can also play as a center-back or right-back. A right-footed player, Simakola has been a part of the Ugandan national team since 2022, earning 19 caps to date.

Fadiga, 28, is an attacking midfielder versatile enough to operate on either wing. He has competed in various tiers of French football and recently played for Levski Sofia in Bulgaria’s top division, where he appeared in 51 matches, scoring 7 goals and assisting twice.

Al-Arabi commenced its pre-season training two days ago, with 20 players participating in the first session. Portuguese coach Marco Alves led the training, supported by his technical team. New signing Hamad Al-Harbi also took part in his debut session with the club.

The team will continue training until it embarks on a two-week training camp in the UAE starting July 25, during which it will play three friendly matches. Afterwards, Al-Arabi will travel to the Maldives for a crucial AFC Challenge League playoff against Maziya Sports Club on August 12, a decisive match for progression to the group stage.

Club official Abdullah Al-Hayri thanked the players for their dedication at the opening training and confirmed that Nigerian forward Christopher John is expected to join the squad today, with Fadiga arriving tomorrow.

Al-Hayri expressed strong confidence in coach Alves, stating, “The management trusts the coach fully. He brings valuable experience, and we have seen lesser-known coaches succeed here in Kuwait.” Alves has already reviewed over ten of Al-Arabi’s matches from last season and is well-acquainted with the squad’s strengths and weaknesses.

In a notable development, Khaled Al-Qabandi resigned from his position as Head of Football Operations due to personal reasons. A replacement has yet to be announced.

Al-Qabandi remarked, “I gave my all last season, but due to other commitments, I have decided to step down and allow someone else to take over.”

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff