Al Rayyan Concludes Spain Camp with Victory and Squad Revamp

Al Rayyan SC concluded their three-week pre-season training camp in Spain on a high note, securing a 2-0 victory over Cotillas CD in their sixth and final friendly match. Goals from Khalid Ali in the 26th minute and Ali Al Qahtani early in the second half (47’) sealed the win.

The friendly campaign began with a 1-0 triumph over Malaysia’s Johor Darul Ta'zim, followed by back-to-back defeats against Spain’s Albacete (0-2) and Andorra (0-1). Al Rayyan also recorded a goalless draw against Spanish side CD Minera, showing gradual improvement throughout the tour.

Despite flashes of quality last season, Al Rayyan ended the domestic campaign without silverware. They finished runners-up in the Amir Cup, losing the final to Al Gharafa, and placed fifth in the Qatar Stars League (QSL) standings.

In preparation for the upcoming season, the club has undergone a significant overhaul, making several key signings. Qatari international Ahmed Alaaeldin returned from Al Arabi on a contract through 2027. Defensive reinforcements included Bahaa Ellethy from Al Ahli (contract until 2028) and emerging talent Abdullah Yousef, who signed a long-term deal until 2030.

Adding creativity to the midfield, Al Rayyan secured the services of Brazilian playmaker Gregory da Silva from Botafogo on a deal running through 2027.

However, the club also saw the departure of several notable players: Brazilian defender Thiago Mendes, striker Adam Bareiro of Paraguay, Brazilian goalkeeper Paulo Victor, Egyptian winger Mahmoud Trezeguet, Qatari midfielder Abdulrahman Al Harazi, and Iranian midfielder Ali Qaderi.

Looking ahead, Al Rayyan will open their QSL 2025-2026 season against Al Sailiya on August 14 at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. The team is also set to represent Qatar in the upcoming Gulf Club Champions League, featuring eight top clubs from the region.