Al Sadd officially presented the first team’s new head coach, Javi Gracia, to the fans and the media, during a press conference held this morning, Wednesday, at the Conference Hall in Ali Bin Hamad Al Attiyah Hall.
The press conference was attended by Turki Al-Ali, CEO of the club, and Mohamed Ghanem Al-Ali, head of football, along with media representatives and fans of the club.
At the beginning of the press conference, Turki Al-Ali welcomed the new coach, Javi Gracia, and wished him and the team success in the coming period.
Turki Al-Ali said: “The coach is a big name and has overseen the training of big clubs in the Spanish and English leagues. Javi was chosen after careful study. I believe that there is a common desire for the club and the coach, which is winning championships.”
For his part, the new coach Javi Gracia said: “I am happy to be in Doha. I know Al Sadd is a very big club. I know the good things Xavi did here as a player and coach. We will maintain the same offensive mentality, and try to be aggressive in the opponent’s half. To play well, we need a good balance and we will try to find it, and achieve our targets, which is to win by keeping a good style of play.”
“We aim to be be aggressive and also to defend better. Sometimes you need to defend well to win matches. That is our target as well. I’m proud to be part of this club, with this group of players.”
As for the decision to sign for Al-Sadd, Gracia said: “It was easy to decide to come. From the beginning, I could feel the interest of the club. It is the right place and right time to do a good job. I am sure we are going to enjoy this experience and we will try to do our best.”
The Spanish coach also revealed that the duration of his contract with Al Sadd is one year.
Asked about the city of Doha, Gracia said: “Doha looks like a wonderful city and is experiencing special moments as part of hosting the Arab Cup. I felt that it was amazing as soon as we arrived.”
Gracia went on to stress that the team’s goal is always to win all matches in all competitions, to win more titles, and be a part of the club’s history.
“We have to work together to improve the club, to contribute to the development of the national team.”
At the end of the press conference, Mohamed Ghanem Al-Ali, head of football, noted that Javi Gracia is a good coach, and said: “We expect a lot from him with the team during the upcoming matches.”
