Al-Sadd head coach Roberto Mancini has confirmed that Al Sadd are ready for their upcoming match against UAE side Shabab Al Ahli, in Round 6 of the AFC Champions League Elite for the 2025–2026 season.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Mancini said: “I expect it to be a strong match, and for us it is a very important game. We have some issues ahead of this game against Shabab Al Ahli. We are missing a number of players due to their participation in the Africa Cup of Nations as well as injuries, but we will be ready for the match in any case.”
The coach added: “We have 9 points to play for. In football, you can never say the word ‘impossible’. Yes, we are currently behind in the standings, but we must do everything we can to come back.”
Asked about the injury of Romain Saiss during national duty for Morocco, Mancini said: ““I believe his injury is minor and he will return soon.”
He continued: “These are not easy circumstances, but we will try. I have gotten to know the players well, and we have only trained together for 10 days. Despite the injuries, we will be ready for the Shabab Al Ahli match.”
Meanwhile, Al Sadd player Giovani Henrique said at the press conference: “We are looking forward to delivering a good performance after returning to domestic and continental action following the long break, and we hope the match ends with a positive result for us.”
Giovani added: “I expect it to be a tough match for both sides. As players, we are ready and trained well last week. I am happy with what we have done, and I think it will be a good match for us as players.”
He concluded: “My message to the fans is that we, as players, need your support at this moment. We will strive to give our best in this match and others, and we are eager to return to playing in Al Sadd’s colors. We promise our fans to give 100 percent of what we have.”
