Al Duhail step up preparations in Netherlands ahead of new season
DOHA: Qatar’s Al Duhail are continuing preparations for the 2026-27 season with a pre-season training camp in Amsterdam as coach Djamel Belmadi readies his squad for domestic and regional competitions.
The team has been based in the Dutch capital since July 20 and will remain there until Aug. 10, focusing on physical conditioning, tactical organisation and technical work ahead of the new campaign.
As part of the camp, Al Duhail will play a series of friendly matches against Dutch side Wooter Academy and Saudi Pro League clubs Al Taawoun and Al Fayha.
Al Duhail finished the 2025-26 Qatar Stars League season with 33 points from 22 matches, recording nine wins, six draws and seven defeats to secure qualification for the Gulf Club Champions League. They also boasted the league’s best defensive record, conceding 27 goals while scoring 40.
Midfielder Mubarak Shanan was shortlisted for the Qatar Football Association’s Best Under-23 Player award following his performances last season.
The club have strengthened their squad with the signings of goalkeeper Fahad Younis and forward Oumar Sekou, who join an experienced group that includes Almoez Ali, Boubakary Soumare, Adil Boulbina, Tuta, Jean Castelletto, Edmilson Junior and Karim Boudiaf.
Al Duhail will begin their 2026-27 league campaign against promoted Al Sailiya at Al Bayt Stadium on Aug. 21 as they seek to challenge for domestic honours and improve on last season’s fourth-place finish.
