Khalba club player Ali Salem stated that the 2025-2026 Professional League title will go to the more deserving team between Al Ain and Shabab Al Ahli. He pointed out that predicting the champion is difficult due to the close points gap between the two clubs. Salem also expressed hope of returning to the national team if the opportunity arises, saying, "I would be the happiest person." He emphasized that Khalba players are determined to secure as many points as possible during the remaining league rounds. Salem told Al Ittihad: "Despite the difficulty in predicting, the title will be decided for the more deserving, especially since the difference between the teams is currently just one point, which reflects the strength of the competition between them." Al Ain leads the league table after the 21st round with 53 points, while Shabab Al Ahli sits second with 52 points. Regarding his own team, Salem stressed that Khalba players are determined to win as many points as possible in the remaining rounds, saying, "We have clear ambitions, and we will enter every match aiming for victory and to improve our position in the table." Khalba currently occupies 10th place with 22 points following a 2-2 draw with Al-Bataih in the 21st round. In terms of the relegation battle, Salem expressed confidence in his team's ability to continue in the Professional League, confirming that Khalba will continue its journey steadily until the end of the season. Salem spoke about his experience at Khalba after moving from Al Wasl, saying, "Football is my passion and profession since childhood, and the most important thing for me is to continue playing, whether with Khalba or any other club; I always strive for the best." The player has played 15 matches in the league this season, nine of them as a starter, with a total of 699 minutes played. Salem (31 years old) confirmed that he still has big ambitions that he seeks to achieve, noting that his continued presence on the pitch is a positive thing for him. Regarding the possibility of returning to the national team, he said, "Of course, I hope to return again, representing the national team is a dream for every player, and if the opportunity arises, I would be the happiest person, it's a great honor for any player." He also wished the new players who joined the national team success, confirming that the national team's ambitions are still alive and that 'Al Ahdar' is capable of achieving achievements with the current group of players.
