ANKARA, July 13: Kuwait Club unveiled its new Tunisian player, Yahya Gibran, during the team’s training camp in Turkey, which runs until July 29 in preparation for the new season. Gibran has been participating in daily training sessions.

"Al-Abyad" has now completed its roster of foreign players, including Tunisian Yassin Al-Khanisi, Bahraini Muhammad Marhoon, Congolese Arsene Zola “Malik,” and Argentine Sergio Vitor. Gibran, 33, excels as a defensive midfielder, and his signing fills the gap left by Moroccan Mahdi Barahma, who transferred to Al-Qadisiya.

The Turkey camp began last week and will continue until July 29, as the team gears up for the new season. It will compete in the qualifying play-off for the AFC Champions League, facing Al-Ahly of Bahrain in Manama on August 14, with the winner advancing to the group stage. The defense of its league title starts against Al-Qadisiya on August 8.

Lyricist Yasaleh Madouh, known as “Saher,” visited Kuwait’s training session two days ago, taking souvenir photos with the players, and the technical, administrative, and medical staff. The team is training twice daily, in the morning and evening.

In related news, Wydad expressed gratitude to its former player, Yahya Gibran, who was officially introduced as a new player for Kuwait Cub after years with the Casablanca team, during which he won numerous local and African championships.

Wydad's official Facebook page wished Gibran success in his new venture while keeping the door open for his return time. The club wrote: “Thank you, Yahya Gibran, for the unforgettable memories and for giving your all to the Red and White. We wish you nothing but success in your future endeavors. You will always be part of the Wydad family.”

Despite Wydad's attempts to retain Gibran by settling his outstanding dues, the player chose to embark on a new professional journey in Kuwait after his previous stint in the UAE.

Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff