Latest news with #KhalidAlHashimi


Gulf Today
9 hours ago
- Sport
- Gulf Today
Five days after I do, Hashimi says yes again — this time to Al Ain's call of duty
In a poignant display of unwavering loyalty, Khalid Al Hashimi, center-back for Al Ain, did not hesitate to answer the call of duty for 'The Boss.' Just five days after his wedding, he rejoined training and traveled with the squad to Washington, to prepare for Al Ain's historic participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. In his remarks from the team's training camp, Al Hashimi praised the highly positive atmosphere and strong sense of discipline among the players. He also expressed his appreciation for the unwavering support and direct involvement of Sheikh Sultan Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Al Ain FC's Board of Directors. Al Hashimi noted that Sheikh Sultan's constant encouragement and generous support create the ideal conditions for the team to honorably represent the UAE on this global stage. 'When the call of duty involves the name and reputation of the UAE, there is absolutely no room for hesitation,' Al Hashimi said. 'We fully understand the responsibility that lies ahead, and we must prove ourselves worthy of this trust.' Quoting the well-known English proverb, he continued, 'No gains without sacrifices. We won't achieve anything without giving something in return. The spirit in the camp is perfect, and the unity among the players, coaches, and staff is our true source of strength.' When asked about the impact of the club's new signings, Al Hashimi emphasized the value of internal competition. 'We have a complete and well-rounded squad. The competition among players is healthy—it motivates everyone to push harder. Our head coach bases his decisions on performance, not names. Right now, maintaining team spirit and eliminating negative energy are our top priorities.' In conclusion, Al Hashimi delivered a heartfelt message to Al Ain fans: 'You are our heartbeat. Your support makes all the difference. To everyone who traveled to Washington, D.C., we say: You are most welcome among us. With God's grace, we will do our best to meet your expectations and make this historic participation a proud moment for all.'

Khaleej Times
18 hours ago
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Fifa Club World Cup: Khalid Al Hashimi rejoins Al Ain days after his wedding
Khalid Al Hashimi, Al Ain FC's experienced centre-back, rejoined his club's training camp in the United States just five days after his wedding, underlining his commitment as the UAE club prepare for their opening Fifa Club World Cup match against Italian heavyweights Juventus on June 19. Al Ain have been drawn into Group G of the expanded tournament alongside Juventus, Premier League giants Manchester City, and Moroccan side Wydad AC. 'When the call of duty involves the name and reputation of the United Arab Emirates, there is no room for hesitation. We know what lies ahead, and we must be worthy of the responsibility,' said the 26-year-old defender. 'Success demands hard work and dedication. Thankfully, the atmosphere in the training camp is ideal. The unity and team spirit shared by the coaching staff, management, and players is our greatest strength.' Al Ain face a daunting group-stage challenge in the newly expanded 32-team format of the Club World Cup, with both Manchester City and Juventus looming as title contenders. But Khalid remains confident in the team's preparation and is hopeful of a strong turnout from Al Ain fans when they take on Juventus in Washington. 'You are the heartbeat of this team, and your support makes all the difference,' he said. 'To everyone who has made the journey to Washington D.C. to support us – we extend a warm welcome. With God's grace, we hope to make you proud in this historic campaign.' Following their opener against Juventus on June 19, Al Ain will face Manchester City in Atlanta on June 23, before wrapping up their group-stage matches against Wydad AC in Washington on June 26. The tournament format features 32 clubs divided into eight groups of four, with the top two from each group progressing to the knockout stages. Al Ain, who famously reached the final of the 2018 edition before falling to Real Madrid, will be aiming for another strong performance in the United States.