Tuta poses with an official.
Doha, Qatar: Qatar heavyweights Al Duhail yesterday announced the signing of Brazilian defender Lucas Silva Melo, nicknamed Tuta, as they apply the final touches to their preparations for the upcoming season.
The Qatar Stars League (QSL) giants did not disclose the duration of Tuta’s contract, who becomes the latest addition to the Red Knights’ evolving squad.
Tuta, 26, brings significant experience, having begun his professional career with Brazilian club Sao Paulo in 2018 before moving to German Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt.
He was later loaned to Belgian club Kortrijk before his move to Al Duhail was confirmed.
Since Algerian tactician Djamel Belmadi returned to Al Duhail for his third stint, the club has made a string of high-profile signings, including Cameroonian international Jean-Charles Castelletto, Italian midfielder Marco Verratti from Al Arabi, promising young Algerian Adil Boulbina and Polish striker Krzysztof Piatek.
Al Duhail, coached last season by Frenchman Christophe Galtier, finished as runners-up in the QSL, with their most recent league title coming in the 2022-23 season.
Al Duhail players celebrate a goal against Al Taawoun FC during their friendly yesterday.
Red Knights secure win in friendly
Al Duhail wrapped up their preseason training camp in the Netherlands with a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabian side Al Taawoun FC yesterday.
Benjamin Bourigeaud and Boulbina were on target in the win, which marked Al Duhail’s fourth and final friendly match during their two-week training stint.
Upon returning home, Al Duhail will finalise preparations for their AFC Champions League Elite play-off against Iran’s Sepahan, scheduled for August 12 at Khalifa International Stadium.
The Red Knights will then begin their QSL campaign against Al Shahania at the same venue four days later.
Meanwhile, Al Shamal also concluded their training camp in the Netherlands, ending with a 2-1 defeat to Dutch club Telstar in their final friendly.
During their stay, Al Shamal played four friendly matches as part of their preseason preparations. They will open their QSL campaign against Al Ahli on August 14. The team finished sixth in the previous Qatar Stars League season.
