Kuwait Club’s handball department has initiated preseason training for the first team on August 15, 2026, with sessions taking place at the club’s indoor hall, according to team manager Sameh Al-Hajri. Brazilian coach Marcos Oliveira is overseeing the preparations as the squad seeks to capitalize on its trophy-laden 2025-26 campaign. The coaching staff has set a clear focus on preserving the winning formula that delivered three major honors last season.
The club announced the renewal of Montenegrin international Vladan Lipovina’s contract and the signing of Bahraini talent Mohammed Habib as part of squad building efforts. It has further bolstered the roster by securing the returns of Mohammed Bayas, Mohammed Ghannafour and Hussam Matouq from loan periods at Burgan as well as the arrival of Haider Dashti from Al-Salmiya. Several players exited the team, including foreign stars Frankis Marzo of Qatar and Portugal’s Victor Iturriza together with Kuwaiti contingent Mohammed Amer, Mishari Sawan, Yaqoub Al-Asiri, Mohammed Al-Boushi, Fahad Abdulhadi, Mishal Taha and Ali Safar.
According to club statements, not all departing players have secured new contracts yet, creating a period of transition within the squad. These changes are intended to maintain a competitive edge ahead of the 2026-27 season across domestic and regional fronts. Al-Hajri indicated that the technical, administrative and playing staff are unified in their approach to the upcoming campaign.
Kuwait Handball League records show that Kuwait Club has claimed the championship 15 times, the highest total of any side and including a dominant run of titles in recent years. The Asian Handball Federation has recognized Kuwait’s clubs for consistent performances in continental events, with the sport holding a special place as one of the country’s most followed athletic disciplines. Such history adds pressure for the team to continue its success following last season’s league, Federation Cup and Super Cup sweep.
Sameh Al-Hajri outlined the preseason priorities in detail, stressing the need for comprehensive coverage of all preparation elements. The manager explained that the period would allow the team to reach peak condition before competitive matches begin. He pointed to the collective determination among all involved parties to extract maximum value from the training sessions.
In comments carried from the club, Al-Hajri said, “Everyone is working with one spirit and a shared commitment to achieve our goals in the coming season.” The team manager added that Kuwait Club aims to position itself as a leading contender for both local and international trophies throughout the year. This ambition aligns with the expectations set by the club’s management and its supporters.
