Star summer recruit Jorge Valdivia is set to arrive at Al Wahda on Friday, a day after they begin their 2015/16 Arabian Gulf League campaign at newly-promoted Dibba Al Fujairah.
Valdivia, 31, agreed a two-year deal last month but was unable to free himself from Brazilian club Palmeiras until his contract expired on Monday.
This has delayed the Chile playmaker’s return to the UAE, where he previously starred for Al Ain from 2008-10.
Speaking before his competitive bow with the Clarets on Thursday night, new boss Javier Aguirre was confident his squad had sufficient quality to cope without their eye-catching addition.
“From the beginning, I understood Valdivia’s relationship with Palmeiras ended on August 17,” the former Atletico Madrid and Mexico coach said.
“He has to arrange some personal things, so he will arrive [in the UAE] on August 21. It has not affected our preparations. I am really happy with the team I have. Valdivia is coming and will arrive. I spoke with him already, sending him plans – we are under way.”
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Wahda are determined to improve on last term’s disappointing fourth-placed finish and return to the AFC Champions League.
Opponents Dibba lifted the UAE Division 1 Group A title and have recruited well, veteran centre forward Boris Kabi their most high-profile buy.
“The management of Dibba Al Fujairah contracted some good foreign players,” Aguirre said. “We respect the opponent, but what concerns us is the performance of our team only.”
Wahda are expected to hand an AGL debut to former Arsenal midfielder Denilson, though UAE goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani is a doubt.
Legendary striker Ismail Matar believes under Aguirre the Clarets are well positioned to fight for a first top-flight title since 2009/10. He said: “We as players are trying our best as always and want to capture the Arabian Gulf League championship this season.”
