Gyan, Omar, Vucinic & Viana: The AGL’s leading lights

Sport360 staff 15:17 08/06/2015
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  • Omar Abdulrahman (r) and Asamoah Gyan catapulted Al Ain to AGL glory.

    Following the news that La Liga and the AGL have agreed a partnership deal, we look at the stars plying their trade in the UAE with great success.

    – INSIDE STORY: Agreement with La Liga a big boost for UAE football
    – Al Jazira nearing deal with Roma for Gervinho – reports
    – #360view: Even treble may not heal Luis Enrique

    Omar Abdulrahman

    Club: Al Ain
    Age: 23
    Country: UAE

    One of Asia’s finest, the attacking midfielder is a joy to behold when free from injury. Omar extended his contract with Al Ain earlier this season, meaning a European adventure will have to wait.

    Mirko Vucinic

    Club: Al Jazira
    Age: 31
    Country: Montenegro

    Striker excelled after Juventus move, top scoring in the 2014/15 AGL with 25 goals. The Montenegran forward will pose an even greater threat next season having become accustomed to life in the UAE.

    Ali Mabkhout

    Club: Al Jazira
    Age: 24
    Country: UAE

    The 2015 Asian Cup leading marksman is just as deadly on home soil. A real star for the future, Mabkhout is ambitious and hopes to land a move to Europe. Mabkhout has long been linked with a move to La Liga.

    Asamoah Gyan

    Club: Al Ain
    Age: 29 
    Country: Ghana

    Africa’s all-time leading goalscorer in World Cups has won five trophies with the Boss. One of the star men of the Arabian Gulf League champions, Gyan has scored an incredible 95 goals in 83 games for Al Ain in four seasons at the club.

    Everton Ribeiro

    Club: Al Ahli
    Age: 26
    Country: Brazil

    Has grown since February arrival. Playmaker is part of Brazil’s Copa America squad. It took Ribeiro time to settle in at Al Ahli but his performances in recent weeks have inspired his team to their first appearance in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals.

    Hugo Viana

    Club: Al Wasl
    Age: 32
    Country: Portugal

    The classy midfielder has shown his timeless passing ability at both Al Ahli and Al Wasl. Viana came to UAE when his contract with Braga expired and has not looked back.

    Madjid Bougherra

    Club: Fujairah
    Age: 32
    Country: Algeria

    Was a steadying influence at the back as Fujairah cemented their top-flight status. Prior to arriving in the UAE, Bougherra managed to win two league titles in Qatar with Lekhwiya.

    Joan Verdu

    Club: Bani Yas
    Age: 32
    Country: Spain

    Spanish schemer provided a steady source of assists and goals for Bani Yas in 2014/15. With 10 goals in 24 appearances, Verdu has become one of the most vital players at the club.

    Brett Holman

    Club: Emirates Club
    Age: 31
    Country: Australia

    Lifted three cups with Al Nasr and is now set to provide vital experience for Emirates Club. Holman leaves Nasr having captained the side to the cup double this season.

    Ismail Al Hammadi

    Club: Al Ahli
    Age: 26
    Country: UAE

    Excelled all term despite the Red Knights’ struggles, providing killer speed, skill and showcasing an eye for goal. Won the league's Rookie of the Year award in 2009 and has this season began to fulfil his immense potential.

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