Locker Room Diplomacy: Shabab's Coach Quietly Settles Hamdallah Ties Ahead of Gulf Clash

Ahead of Gulf clash: Shabab coach clarifies Hamdallah relationship

Spanish coach Emmanuel Alguasil, head of Al Shabab's youth team, was thrilled by Abdul Razak Hamdallah leading his country to Arab Cup glory.

Shabab prepare to face their Qatari rival Al Rayyan tomorrow, Tuesday, in the Gulf Club Champions League.

Alguasil explained at a pre-match press conference that his relationship with Hamdallah is excellent, and that not everything circulating on social media is true.

He added, Abdulrazak is a key player who makes a difference at every club; a true leader on and off the pitch, I would love another player like him and Carasco.

The youth coach added: We also take pride in our local players who have won a title with the Olympic team; this reflects talent and dedication within the squad and helps lift morale and boost team performance.

Alguasil stressed that individual and collective successes strengthen the team's power domestically and continentally, affirming his confidence in all players to face Al Rayyan and achieve the desired results.

Earlier reports suggested tension between Hamdallah and his coach, but the coach clarified the matter in the same press conference.

Punchlines: If goals paid rent, Hamdallah would own the stadium; and my coaching philosophy? Keep calm and let the net do the talking.