KUWAIT CITY, Jan 14: Salmiya's newest Croatian coach, Ante Misha, is set to arrive today to take charge of Al-Samawi's training sessions, succeeding coach Mohammed Al-Mishaan. Notably, Misha will be accompanied by an assistant technical staff comprising a fitness trainer and a goalkeeper trainer.

The coaching transition anticipates Misha's inaugural training session with the team scheduled for tomorrow, as they gear up for a crucial clash against Khaitan on January 28 in the preliminary round of the Amir Cup competition.

Salmiya's management is contemplating the inclusion of former assistant coach Ahmed Deeb, previously with Al-Mishaan, into Al-Samawi's new technical staff. Deeb would serve as a liaison between the coach and the team, providing insights into the squad's performance since the season's inception.

During his initial period with the team, Misha plans to emphasize friendly matches to assess player capabilities and integrate his tactical vision. Rapidly evaluating professional players becomes a priority, particularly as the current phase allows for acquiring talents that can complement Misha's strategic choices in the ongoing season's competitions.

In a strategic move, Al Salmiya commenced the winter transfer period by securing the services of Bahraini professional Mahdi Al-Humaidan to replace Senegalese player Ousseynou Cesar. Al-Humaidan is expected to join immediately after concluding his participation in the Asian Cup in Qatar. The club is actively reviewing CVs of other professionals, aiming to fortify its roster with an additional foreign player for the remainder of the current season's competitions.

Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times