Akram Afif

KUWAIT CITY, Dec 21: Media reports have suggested that Akram Afif's absence could extend throughout the entire Gulf Cup football tournament.

According to Asharq Al-Awsat, Qatar's national team coach, Luis Garcia, announced that the 2023 Asian Player of the Year would miss the opening match against the UAE in the first round of the Khaleeji Zain 26. Sources later indicated that Afif might not participate in any matches during the tournament.

Former Qatar national team star Adel Khamis shared insights on the matter during the Diwan Al-Khaleej program on Kuwait Sports Channel. Khamis stated, "I have not received definitive confirmation, but I have been informed that there is a possibility Akram will not play in the tournament."

He further clarified that Afif's absence was due to personal circumstances and not related to injury or any technical or administrative disputes with Coach Garcia. Khamis added that Afif might still join the squad if his matters are resolved.