Uruguayan coach Jorge Fossati (centre) during his unveiling as the new head coach of Al Rayyan Sports Club. Fossati was last seen in Qatar as the coach of Al Sadd.
By Sports Reporter/Doha
Uruguayan coach Jorge Fossati was introduced to local Qatari media as the new head coach of Al Rayyan Sports Club recently. The club was represented at the press conference by Vice President Rashid al-Khalifa and Head of Football Ali Salem.
The former Al Sadd man was happy to be back in Qatar and is remembered fondly, having won the 2011 AFC Champions league with the Wolves.
He quickly quashed claims that the Lions would struggle next season, saying “A number of players in the squad have had previous experience of the Qatar Stars League. In addition I have coached in it for a number of years. We will do well.”
The Uruguayan added, “I am happy to be back and coaching Al Rayyan, it is a privilege. We now have the chance re-emerge into the Qatar Stars League in a positive manner.”
He revealed that the club was eager to secure his signature due to his experience in the QSL and that negotiations had been ongoing for a long time.
He said he would work hard to restore the club back to its rightful place amongst the top clubs of Qatar and stressed on the importance of being a united group if they were to achieve their goals. He encouraged the fans to back their team, explaining that the Lions are one of the most popular and well supported clubs in the country.
He also added that the clubs hopes to qualify for the Asian Champions League.
When asked about the possible acquisition of Sebastian Soria, he remained relatively neutral stating that everyone would have to wait and see.
Sergio Garcia: I am very happy to join a club such as Rayyan
Al Rayyan SC officially unveiled their latest foreign signing at a club press conference yesterday evening. The Spaniard was captain of his former team – Espanyol and scored 14 goals last season.
The press conference was held in the presence of the Vice President Rashid al-Khalifa and Head of Football Ali Salem.
Garcia said, “I am very proud to join a prestigious club such as Al Rayyan, I feel very comfortable here and this is due to the warm reception I have received from everyone at the club.”
When asked about the presence of former Barcelona star Xavi Hernandez in the QSL, Garcia said, “He is a good friend who I know from my days at Barcelona. However on the field we shall remain rivals and if I can, I would like to get the better of him on the pitch in the new season.”
Asked about his thoughts on the Qatar Stars League, the Spaniard added, “I was keeping a close eye on the QSL due to Raul’s time here, he played for Al Sadd SC. I would like to replicate the same kind of success that he had here.”
Yousef Desmal: Sabri Lamouchi is not going anywhere
Head of Football at El Jaish Sports Club Mr Yousef Desmal has told local media that Sabri Lamouchi, the current Head Coach of the Soldiers will be at the club for another season. The decision to stick with the French tactician was made by the club’s board.
Desmal said on the official club website, “Sabri Lamouchi has demonstrated a great amount of technical knowledge and leadership. He was able to guide the club to third place in the Qatar Stars League as well as appearances in the final stages of the Qatar Cup and Emir Cup.
In addition, Desmal denied reports about his potential move to the Tunisian national team, the position has become vacant after the dismissal of Head Coach George Leekens who was the previous occupant of the post.
Now to see how Jaish does this season.
