Marco Verratti made headlines with his move to Al Duhail, the former club of Kenyan striker Michael Olunga, marking a significant shift in his career after over a decade at Paris Saint-Germain. The Italian midfield maestro, known for his composure and playmaking, made the transition to Qatari football in search of fresh motivation and a renewed sense of purpose.
After spending two years at Al-Arabi, Verratti’s switch to Al Duhail came shortly after Olunga moved in the opposite direction, joining Al-Arabi on a free transfer. This near swap between the two clubs added intrigue for fans who had once hoped to see both players share the pitch.
Verratti, a Euro 2020 champion and nine-time Ligue 1 winner, explained his decision as a personal and professional reset. He described his experience in Qatar as refreshing, citing a return to the joy of football often lost in the pressure-cooker environments of top European leagues. In Doha, he found a more relaxed, team-oriented culture where even players on the bench remained upbeat and united.
His reflections revealed a deeper emotional shift. At PSG, winning had become routine. In Qatar, he rediscovered the childlike excitement of victory — a feeling that reignited his passion for the game. Al Duhail, having finished as runners-up in the previous season, aim to reclaim their dominance in the league, and Verratti is confident in helping them achieve that.
Though he left a decorated legacy at PSG, he admitted that the elusive UEFA Champions League title still haunts the club. Despite recent successes in his absence, Verratti rejected the notion that PSG’s dominance was solely due to marquee signings, insisting the club had always boasted quality players during his time.
Looking ahead, Verratti also revealed his desire to return to his boyhood club, Pescara, where his football journey began. Now a co-owner of the Serie B side, he dreams of playing even one more minute in their shirt as a symbolic tribute.
As he continues his career in the Middle East while nurturing his long-term vision for Pescara, Verratti remains a player whose love for football and loyalty to his roots shine through each decision he makes.
