DOHA (Qatar): Mario Mandzukic joined a long list of top names to play for Qatari club when the Croatian star signed for Al Duhail last week.
The 33-year old, who joined from Juventus last week, will give Duhail a big boost as they look to regain the Qatar Stars League title and AFC Champions League, which has eluded the Red Knights.
“I’m preparing for the beginning of a new journey with one of the biggest clubs in Asia. I’ll work hard with my team-mates to help the team in achieving all its goals,” said Mandzukic.
Al Duhail coach Rui Faria was delighted that the club signed Mandzukic.
“I welcome Mario Mandzukic to Al Duhail. I’m very happy with the deal. Everyone knows his huge technical ability and strength that made him a big success at some of the top European clubs. He will be a big addition to our team,” said Faria.
Duhail are leading the QSL table with 29 points, four ahead of second-placed Al Rayyan, but Faria said they have been missing plenty of goal-scoring chances.
“We were looking to sign him for a while and I am happy we succeeded in doing it. I wish him success in his new experience,” he added.
The Portuguese, a long-time assistant to Jose Mourinho, was expecting Mandzukic to solve that problem.
“Mario is an important player with great experience and his presence with us is a great benefit for the team.
“We try to control the match. We attack and create many scoring opportunities, but there’s a problem in finishing. The presence of a player such as Mario will give help us solve this problem,” said Faria.
