Al Duhail coach Christophe Galtier spoke to the media ahead of their 2024-2025 season Ooredoo Stars League Week 3 match against Umm Salal.

“Although they beat us last season, I know them well and I also know their coach and I know his method of work well.

“The team worked hard and well for Umm Salal match and we know that they have a good attack line, but the most important thing is what we will offer in this match – Will we be satisfied with what we offered and win the previous two matches or will our team continue to work positively and in line with our ambition to continue our victories – which will be a good thing indeed before the next international break and that each match has its own characteristics.

“There are many things that have changed from last season and the team’s structure has also changed, in addition to what the club president is offering to the team. I have been here in Qatar for nine months now and the mentality has changed and I always ask the players to focus on training. We have an integrated group and I try to have a good team ready for every match we play.

“I always hope that the players are motivated and determined to perform better, and it is important before the international break to achieve victory, and this is an important thing.

“Last season was new for me to get used to the atmosphere and there was following the team and the league in general. At a personal level as well, I was very busy with some matters related to France, and thank God today I enjoy a stable life. I love the players and I love the club, and I am happy here anyway now,” said Galtier.

Al Duhail player Ismail Mohammed said, “The team is preparing for all matches with a separate plan for each match and the technical staff directed the players well in preparation for the Umm Salal match, and the goal is to achieve victory.

“The reason for the decline in the team’s results last season was due to the decline in some players’ levels and the injuries that affected the team and that greatly affected the general level of the team. But the continuation of coach is a very sound decision in order to maintain the stability of players and provide an excellent level.

“This is the first time that the team is not playing in the AFC Champions League Elite. We must recover from any stumble or setback and return strongly to the Asian championship.”