Al Wakrah complete France camp as Sierra turns focus to new season
DOHA: Al Wakrah have stepped up preparations for the 2026-27 season after completing a pre-season training camp in Rennes, France, where coach Jose Luis Sierra focused on improving the squad’s fitness, tactical organisation and cohesion ahead of the new campaign.
The camp, which ran from July 17 to Aug. 2, included intensive training sessions and four friendly matches as Sierra and his coaching staff assessed new signings and fine-tuned the team’s preparations for a demanding season.
Al Wakrah recorded a 2-0 victory over French side Stade Brestois but suffered defeats to Nantes (5-1), Caen (4-1) and FC Roanne (1-0). The matches provided the coaching staff with an opportunity to evaluate player performances and strengthen combinations across the squad.
The Blue Wave finished eighth in the 2025-26 Doha Bank Stars League standings with 27 points from seven wins, six draws and nine defeats, scoring 32 goals while conceding 36.
The club has reinforced its squad with the signings of Rabeh Boussafi, Mohamed Ibrahim “Simo” and Tameem Mansour, who join an experienced group that includes Luis Alberto, Lucas Mendes, Amin Zahzouh, Aissa Laidouni, Jacinto Dala, Gerard Valentin, Hamdy Fathy, Redouane Berkane, Ayoub Assal, Almahdi Ali and goalkeeper Mohammed Al Bakri.
Al Wakrah will begin their 2026-27 Doha Bank Stars League campaign against Qatar SC at Lusail Stadium on Aug. 20 as they seek to improve on last season’s league finish and make a stronger impact in domestic competitions.
