Ahead of the start to the 2015/16 Arabian Gulf League season, The National will preview the fortunes for each of the UAE's 14 top-flight clubs. Here, John McAuley examines champions Al Ain.
Outlook
For the second successive season, Al Ain begin proceedings with question marks surrounding their foreign contingent.
Twelve months ago, Miroslav Stoch had just joined, Lee Myjung-joo was relatively unknown and Jires Kembo Ekoko had been brought back when previously deemed not talented enough.
Now the club find themselves in a similar position, only this time Asamoah Gyan is not around to guarantee goals.
The Ghanaian, a three-time Golden Boot winner, was allowed to leave for China and subsequently replaced by Emmanuel Emenike.
Meanwhile, Ryan Babel and Fellipe Bastos have been recruited.
It means there is much to ponder for fans of the UAE champions, despite Al Ain still possessing an extremely gifted set of Emiratis; in Omar Abdulrahman, they have the league’s standout.
Al Ain sealed the league title easily last season, wrapping up a 12th crown with three rounds to spare.
Doubts have surfaced regarding their current state, though, and a drop in performance is unlikely to be tolerated for long by their supporters – the most demanding in the division.
Foreign quartet
Lee Myjung-joo: The South Korean was a hit during his debut campaign last season and was commended for his work rate and application. He allows the team’s attacking players to shine.
Ryan Babel: A forward with undeniable talent, the Dutchman has never really fulfilled his potential. Employed on the left flank, he looks to cut in and unleash shots from distance.
Fellipe Bastos: His acquisition may have been a surprise, but the Brazilian has already shown his skill set: a true box-to-box midfielder, he enjoys a long-range strike as well.
Emmanuel Emenike: A mercurial Nigerian, when on his game he has the requisite tools to trouble defences. Strong, speedy and plays on the shoulder. Will look to link up with Abdulrahman.
Key Emirati players
Among the most gifted group of local players in the league, Al Ain contribute a substantial chunk to the national team. Khalid Essa has settled in goal after a suspect debut season, while defender Mohanad Salem was one of the brightest spots from the UAE’s run to Asian Cup semi-finals in January. Abdulrahman is the prize asset, though, since he can control matches and conjure chances for teammates.
Manager
Zlatko Dalic, Croatia: A shock appointment in March last year, he has certainly repaid Al Ain’s faith. Led the club to the President’s Cup crown three months after joining, then to the 2014 Asian Champions League semis. The league title swiftly followed last season. Has revamped the side’s style, injecting energy and pace, but the pressure is on for more improvement. A tough assignment.
The National’s verdict
Make no mistake, Al Ain have the resources to retain the title, but with Gyan gone and others to settle, they cannot afford to stumble during the opening rounds. This campaign will be more testing than the previous one, especially with the Champions League a priority and given that their rivals have strengthened considerably. Success will be a real battle.
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