Kuwait Club appoints Tata as handball team coach; Kazma retains Ristavetić

12/07/2026

KUWAIT CITY, July 12: Kuwait Club has appointed Brazilian coach Marcos Oliveira “Tata” as head coach of its first handball team for the new season, as the club continues its preparations to challenge for domestic and international honors.

The club selected Oliveira after reviewing several coaching options, with the Brazilian earning the role thanks to his technical experience and coaching background. He will take charge of the team's preseason preparations ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Kuwait Club is also closing in on the signing of Bahrain international Mohammed Habib, with negotiations at an advanced stage. The final details are being completed before the deal is officially announced, which would make Habib the club's second foreign player after Montenegrin Vladan.

The White's latest moves reflect the club's strategy of strengthening the squad with quality additions as it looks to remain among the top contenders and compete for major trophies. The handball transfer market has been particularly active, setting the stage for a highly competitive season.

Meanwhile, Kazma has confirmed that French coach Slaviša Ristavetić will remain in charge of the first team for the 2026-27 season, with handball team manager and club secretary Omar Al Mulla emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability within the technical staff.

Ristavetić joined Kazma in February, but the suspension of sporting activities from Feb. 28 prevented him from fully carrying out his plans. The club has decided to allow him to implement his program from the beginning of the new season.

Kazma has also renewed the contract of Tunisian professional Anouar Ben Abdallah following his outstanding performances, with Al Mulla praising his contribution and highlighting his importance to the team's ambitions of competing strongly in local competitions.

The Kazma squad will begin preparations in early August, with players set to undergo an intensive physical and technical program that includes several friendly matches to ensure they are ready for the start of official competitions.

By Khaled Al Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff