Zlatko Dalic has agreed to a new one-year contract at Al Ain, bringing to an end speculation regarding his future.
The Croat had been expected to leave the club following the expiration last week of his previous deal and was considering other offers, including one from another Arabian Gulf League club.
However, the club have confirmed he is to continue in the Garden City.
Al Ain's 2015/16 season yielded mixed results, with the club relinquishing their domestic league title to Al Ahli to eventually finish runners-up, while on May 29 they lost the President's Cup final to Al Jazira on penalties.
Yet Dalic masterminded Al Ain’s progression to the quarter-finals of the Asian Champions League, meaning the 2003 continental champions will resume their quest in late August to again lift the trophy. The draw for the last eight takes place this Thursday.
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Al Ain’s involvement in that, coupled with last week’s decision to dissolve the club board, is believed to have played a key role in Dalic remaining. The former Al Hilal coach will have the backing of the new board once it is installed, as Al Ain target the Champions League crown and also seek to be reinstated as the top team in UAE football.
“Al Ain Club has announced the renewal of the contract of Zlatko Dalic for one more season, as the club believes he is the right coach to lead the team,” the club said in a statement.
“Zlatko will extend his stay to three-and-a-half years, signing the extra year as reward for the good effort made and record he has achieved with Al Ain.”
The club are expected to be busy in the transfer market this summer, with Lee Myung-joo the only foreign player reportedly guaranteed to stay. Striker Douglas has scored 18 goals in 22 appearances since joining Al Ain in January, although the club would upgrade if a suitable replacement becomes available. Winger Danilo Asprilla’s future is uncertain, while midfielder Fellipe Bastos’ time at Al Ain is drawing to a close.
Dalic’s decision to extend his contract is viewed as the first step to ensuring Al Ain are best equipped for dual assignments next season. Since arriving at the club in March 2014, he has led the team to the 2014/15 league title and the 2014 President’s Cup crown. He also took Al Ain to the semi-finals of the 2014 Champions League — their best performance since 2005.
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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