Al Duhail bolster squad with Senegal star Youssouf Sabaly
DOHA: Al Duhail SC have officially announced the signing of Senegalese right-back Youssouf Sabaly from Spanish club Real Betis, bolstering their squad ahead of the 2025–26 season. The 32-year-old joins the Qatari side as a key figure in their upcoming campaign, which kicks off in less than three months.
The club confirmed the transfer on Thursday via its social media platforms, describing Sabaly as a major technical addition to the first team. Known for his experience in both Ligue 1 and La Liga, Sabaly brings top-tier defensive capabilities to Al Duhail’s backline.
Sabaly, who began his international career with France and won the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2013, later opted to represent Senegal. He was part of the Senegal squad that won the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations and featured in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
Al Duhail, who finished second in the 2024–25 league campaign, are preparing for the AFC Champions League preliminary round clash against Iran’s Sepahan in September. Under new head coach Djamel Belmadi and with recent addition of Polish striker Krzysztof Piątek, the club is aiming for a strong season both domestically and in Asia.
