Abdulwahab Abdulqadir’s four-year relationship with Ajman, one of the longest tenure for a coach in UAE domestic football, has come to an end after the club decided not to renew the Iraqi’s contract.
Abdulqadir, who started his current reign with Ajman in 2010/11 after they had been relegated to Division One following two seasons in the top tier, guided the team back to the then-Pro League and then helped them survive among the country’s elite clubs for three consecutive seasons.
Last May, he helped end Ajman’s 30-year wait for a major trophy when they beat Al Jazira 2-1 in the final of the Etisalat Cup and the Iraqi was later voted as the Coach of the Season.
Last season did not go to plan as Ajman made a wobbly start and finished the first half at the bottom of the Arabian Gulf League table, but with 19 points from their last 10 matches, they managed to finish 10th and, as he discussed his plans for the next season with the club management last week, Abdulqadir believed he would continue with the team for a fifth season.
“The indicators I got was that the club would be renewing my contract as I had met the administrators a few times to consult on the team’s requirements, the players who will be laid off for next season, and details of our overseas camp,” Abdulqadir told reporters.
“There was no evidence of any disengagement, but then the chairman of the club Khalifa Jarman called me to say they do not wish to extend my contract. I accept their decision and I hope they will find a suitable alternative, capable of achieving the ambitions of the club.
“I know that change is a reality of life and there is no coach who can survive at one club all his life. But as I leave, I can say I am completely satisfied with what we have achieved over the past seasons at Ajman.”
Abdulqadir, though, wishes Ajman had informed him a week earlier as he had been approached by two Qatari clubs, but had turned them down.
The Iraqi, who has been living in the UAE since 1983 and has managed teams like Baniyas, Al Shabab and the UAE Under-19 squad, is now hoping to find another club in the country.
“So far, I have not received any formal offers from clubs in the UAE, but me and my family do not wish to leave the country,” Abdulqadir said. “We have been living here for more than 30 years and have become accustomed to the life in this country.”
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