Qatar’s Khalfan Ibrahim (centre) celebrates with team-mates after scoring a goal during a friendly against Australia at the Lekhwiya Stadium in Doha, in this file photo.
In one of the biggest signings ahead of the new Qatar Stars League (QSL) season, feared striker Khalfan Ibrahim yesterday confirmed a one-year deal to return to Al Arabi, marking an end to his long association with giants Al Sadd.
The Qatar national team player Ibrahim, 29, represented Al Sadd since 2004-05 season, when he left Al Arabi.
After the signing ceremony, the fit-again striker also trained with his new team-mates yesterday.
One of the most prominent players in the country, Ibrahim missed most of the last season following his injury that also kept him out of the national side.
Ibrahim signed the contract in the presence of Jassem Mohammed Al Kuwari, Vice-President of the club, and Adel Mohammed Al Busairi, the team manager.
“I am ready for my first practice session with my original team,” the former Al Arabi player said at the signing ceremony.
“I have come back home. I will wait for my fan fans to come and support the team,” he added.
“I know Al Arabi have a large fan-base and I want to see them in the stands in the new season. We have high ambitions and God Willing, we shall achieve our goals,” he said.
“I grew up here and I played my early football with Al Arabi. I wish the club very best and I wish to help this amazing side in the new season as we chase trophies,” Ibrahim said in a post on the club’s official Twitter handle.
“Al Arabi is an ambitious side and I am want to do well with this side,” Ibrahim said.
When asked about the contract, Ibrahim said: “The contract is for one season and I hope this is the season that I give my side to Al Arabi and that we win trophies.”
He added: “I owe the fans a lot. They have always supported me. I look forward to the next phase of the new season. I am happy with my return and I would like to thank the club officials for showing confidence in me. I hope to add value to their overall season.”
Club Vice-President Al Kuwari said: “We welcome Khalfan to his home. From the administration at this club to the fans, everybody is happy to see him. He will have all our support in the new season.”
Ibrahim’s signing ends speculation that the star striker would also being considered by Al Ahli, Al Gharafa and Al Sailiyah. Khalfan began his career with Al Arabi (1998-2004) as a striker before being signed by Al Sadd.
