Midfielder Mirel Radoi has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Al Ahli and a reunion with Cosmin Olaroiu by insisting he is dedicated to helping Al Ain capture more glory this season.
Romanian coach Olaroiu made a shock switch to Al Ahli – Al Ain’s biggest title rivals – in July and Radoi was widely tipped to follow his compatriot to Dubai.
Olaroiu took Radoi to Al Ain in 2011 and the 32-year-old has made a huge impact; playing a key role in the club’s back-to-back Pro League title successes. Radoi also played under Olaroiu for Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal in 2009 before the former left for Qatari giants Al Sadd at the end of that season.
However, the midfielder has assured Al Ain fans that he will remain in the Garden City for the new season, and insists he and his teammates have moved on from Olaroiu’s departure.
“I still have one year with Al Ain in my contract and I have no idea about these [Al Ahli] rumours,” Radoi said.
“What I know and what I can confirm is that I’m with Al Ain for one more season and I look forward to meeting the aspirations of myself, the management and the fans.”
Radoi added: “Cosmin’s departure to any club, even Real Madrid, has nothing to do with me. I’m committed to Al Ain and I don’t have to be with him everywhere he moves.
“I’m happy with Al Ain, I have a good bond with my teammates, and my family is attached to Al Ain as a city and a club.”
– Abdulrahman: Fossati already making a big impact at Al Ain
Al Ain have experienced major change this summer and will start the season with a new coach, a new goalkeeper, and a new marquee signing.
Uruguayan Jorge Fossati took over the league champions following Olaroiu’s departure, while the arrivals of UAE stopper Khalid Eisa and versatile Brazilian Michel Bastos adds to an already talented group of players.
Radoi is clearly impressed with the business his club achieved during the off-season and the midfielder believes The Boss is in safe hands with Fossati at the helm.
“Fossati is a great coach and has new ways to present to the team,” Radoi said. “If he won the Asian Champions League (ACL) he would be considered one of the best.
“The whole team is working hard under him so we are prepared to face all the challenges this season will bring, which includes passing the group stages of ACL.”
Radoi also took the chance to offer his thoughts on Al Ain’s new star signing Michel Bastos. The versatile Brazilian sealed a move to The Boss from Lyon earlier this month and there is high hope he will help the club deliver domestic and Asian glory.
“Everyone knows Bastos as he was a national team player. He has played for Lyon and Schalke and other European clubs,” Radoi said.
“He is a player of high skills and can play in many positions on the field. I hope he can add something to new to Al Ain.”
READ MORE:
– VIDEO: Al Ain duo Abdulrahman & Bastos show off their skills
– Bastos targets AFC glory after sealing Al Ain switch
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