Saudi Gazette report
HONG KONG — Al Ahli supervisor Matthias Jaissle struck a assured tone forward of his workforce’s Saudi Tremendous Cup semi-final conflict towards Al Qadsiah, saying his aspect is absolutely centered on lifting the trophy regardless that their participation got here through a last-minute invitation.
Talking at a press convention in Hong Kong, Jaissle mentioned: “This match wasn’t initially on our calendar, however as soon as the invitation got here, we embraced it. We goal to be true ambassadors of the nation and which means enjoying to win.”
Jaissle, who’s teaching in Hong Kong for the primary time, performed down considerations concerning the unfamiliar situations: “No motive to fret concerning the climate. The workforce is effectively ready, and I’m optimistic heading into the season.”
He additionally addressed current hypothesis over workforce management after goalkeeper Edouard Mendy wore the captain’s armband in a pleasant towards Al Riyadh, regardless of Franck Kessié being on the pitch.
“There’s no subject in any respect,” he mentioned. “After Firmino’s departure, we let the gamers vote on who ought to captain the workforce. The choices had been Mendy, Kessié, Majrashi, and Ibañez, the squad selected Mendy.”
Requested about Al Qadsiah coach Michel González’s remark that his aspect deserves to be within the closing, Jaissle replied diplomatically: “I can’t touch upon what my colleague mentioned. We’re centered and ready.”
With a number of high-profile exits this summer season — together with Allan Saint-Maximin, Roberto Firmino, and Gabri Viega — Jaissle declined to be drawn into the explanations. “I’ve mentioned earlier than I received’t communicate concerning the switch market. The window continues to be open, however proper now, all focus is on Qadsiah and the Tremendous Cup.”
Jaissle additionally expressed his gratitude for working in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the fast progress of home soccer.
“Everybody right here is working tirelessly to enhance the league. I hope to nonetheless be right here in 2034 to witness the World Cup in Saudi Arabia.”
For his half, goalkeeper Edouard Mendy mentioned the squad is keen to take advantage of the chance: “We started getting ready for the brand new season earlier than we even knew we’d be enjoying on this competitors. Now we need to win.”
He added: “We took the possibility to win the AFC Elite Championship, and now we goal for a brand new trophy. We all know Qadsiah effectively it is going to be an amazing sport.”
