Al Ain’s main competition to regain the Arabian Gulf League title will come from Al Jazira, Al Ahli and Al Nasr, according to coach Zlatko Dalic.
The Croatian returned to the UAE on Saturday following the end of the Boss’ succesful two-week training camp in Italy.
Although the early start to pre-season was planned with next month’s AFC Champions League quarter-final tie with Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad in mind, Dalic has retained a focus on domestic glory.
Al Ain endured a difficult defence of their AGL crown last term, with the 47-year-old being drafted in mid-season to replace Quique Sanchez Flores. His arrival came too late to prevent the Red Knights coasting to first place, but Dalic believes his side are much better positioned to excel now.
He said: “The league won’t be easy and I expect a big competition from many teams who worked on developing their levels since the last season. I think the competition will be among four teams – Al Ain, Al Jazira, Al Nasr and Al Ahli and the best will be able to continue and go on.
“The superiority will be for the team with the best bench players. My message to the Al Ain players is to continue their efforts they paid in Italy and to be able of hitting our targets.”
One source of inspiration for Al Ain comes from Pep Guardiola’s Bayern Munich, with Dalic revealing he spent time with the German giants following his exit from Saudi’s Al Hilal last year.
He said: “I spent a long time in Bayern Munich because I like the style of Pep Guardiola. I also read a lot to educate myself and develop my skills.
“I like the German group style – which doesn’t depend on one player – that lead them to win the World Cup.”
Meanwhile, Al Nasr have continued their summer recruitment drive with the acquisition of UAE international Abdulla Qasem from rivals Al Jazira.
The winger has signed for the Blue Wave on a three-year deal. Qasem made twenty Arabian Gulf League appearances for the Pride of Abu Dhabi last term, scoring two goals.
But the club have decided to let him leave, the high-calibre purchases of striker Mirko Vucinic and winger Jonathan Pitroipa severly reducing his opportunities.
