Al-Ittihad coach Vossing says team ready for Al-Ain clash in AFC Champions League

Al-Ittihad head coach Jens Vossing has confirmed his team’s readiness to face UAE side Al-Ain tomorrow in the fourth round of the AFC Champions League Elite for the 2026-2027 football season.

Speaking at a press conference held at Al-Ittihad Club, Vossing said the match would be a challenge against a strong opponent, and that Al-Ittihad is determined to deliver a performance that reflects the team’s character and secure a positive result. He added that preparations are progressing well, with one final training session remaining before the match.

Vossing noted that Al-Ain has several outstanding players, but stressed that Al-Ittihad also possesses the quality and talent needed to meet expectations. He pointed out that the team is in a phase of development and has reached a good level, with ongoing efforts to achieve its goals and ambitions. He added that the players are fully aware of the requirements at this stage.

Regarding attacking options, Vossing said Al-Ittihad has several choices, including George, Youssef, and Saleh, praising the spirit of cooperation and mutual support among the forwards. He explained that rotating players is necessary, as the team has already played 17 matches this season, and it is difficult for a single player to feature in every game due to technical considerations.

On the injury front, Vossing stated that Doumbia has been working on the pitch for some time, and everyone is making significant efforts to regain full fitness. He expressed hope that the injured players would soon rejoin group training.

For his part, Al-Ittihad player Mukhtar Ali expressed the team’s desire to win and dedicate the victory to the club’s fans. He emphasized that the players understand the weight of responsibility, and that winning is the least they can offer the supporters, hoping for a strong turnout to back the team.

Regarding his role as a holding midfielder, Mukhtar Ali said he feels the coach’s confidence, as do the rest of the squad, and that understanding the coach’s tactical ideas gives him even more confidence. He affirmed his commitment to giving his best and helping the team secure victory.