Jeddah:Al-Ittihad head coach Jens Wissing expressed confidence in his team's readiness for the upcoming AFC Champions League Elite match against Al-Ain from the UAE. The clash is set to take place on Monday, and Wissing emphasized the importance of showcasing the team's character to secure a positive outcome.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Wissing spoke at a press conference held at Al-Ittihad's headquarters, highlighting the challenges posed by the strong opponent. He mentioned that preparations have been effective, with only one training session remaining before the match. While acknowledging Al-Ain's quality players, Wissing was optimistic about Al-Ittihad's talent and resources to meet performance expectations.
Wissing further stated that the team is developing well, with ambitions and goals to achieve. He noted the players' understanding of their responsibilities at this stage. Regarding tactical decisions, such as playing with one striker and rotation policies, Wissing explained the various attacking options available, including players like George, Youssef, and Saleh. He emphasized the importance of managing player workloads due to the demanding schedule of having played 17 matches so far.
On the injury front, Wissing reported that player Doumbia has been training on the pitch and, along with another injured player, is making efforts towards full fitness with hopes of rejoining team training soon.
Al-Ittihad player Mukhtar Ali also expressed the team's eagerness to win and dedicate the victory to fans, aiming to deliver a performance that meets their expectations. Ali highlighted the players' sense of responsibility and the importance of fan support during the match. He added that understanding the coach's tactical approach boosts his confidence and is committed to helping the team secure victory.