Al Rayyan coach Laurent Blanc spoke to the media ahead of their 2021-2022 season QNB Stars League Week 8 match against Al Arabi.

“My team is looking forward to achieving the victory and collecting three points against Al Arabi. We respect the Al Arabi team a lot. The match is different because Al Rayyan fans accept only victory. I hope that the victory over Al Sailiya (last week) will be a good motivation for my team.

“We had two days to prepare for this match. We have a lot of work because we played in the final of the Amir Cup, and then the Al Sailiya match. And after four days, we have another match. It is a difficult thing for the players at times, but fortunately, we have no problem preparing the team for this match.

“The match against Al Arabi will be very important. After this, we have another important match against Al Gharafa. I know that everyone wants to win against Al Arabi. I prepare the players – for all matches – to win and until this moment, we have achieved two victories, two losses and three draws,” said Blanc.

Al Rayyan player Steven Nzonzi said, “Our team is more than capable of winning against Al Arabi. Yes, it will be somewhat difficult against a distinguished team like Al Arabi, but we can do it.

“I think their midfield is good and we have to develop a strong plan. To win championships, I think we need time to play together and develop together. With time and hard work, we will compete for championships, but this thing does not come easily or quickly.

“Al Rayyan are like a family and there are some players who speak French. That makes things a bit easy for me. On the field, we have many good players, so I blended in with the team with ease. In the future, I hope to develop and, with time, I will be doing the best for this great club.”