Underwhelming striker Emmanuel Emenike could have played his last game for Al Ain after the Arabian Gulf League champions began to seriously ponder prematurely ending his season-long loan deal.
Emenike, 28, was unable to find the back of the net when he played all 90 minutes during the Boss’ late 2-1 win at Al Dhafra on Friday. This was his 14th appearance in all competitions since he joined from Fenerbahce in July, with seven goals being struck during this period.
The Boss now have a two-week break until their next fixture at home to Al Wasl on January 23. They intend to use this time to review the recently-retired Nigeria international’s failure to impress both on and off the pitch, as well as consider possible replacements.
Conversely, reports in Turkey have stated Fener are interested in recalling Emenike as they look to add goals to their squad after Robin van Persie and Fernandao only struck six goals each in a Super Lig campaign in which the club sits second.
Al Ain could be minded to find a compromise to end a temporary arrangement which cost them a €3 million fee (Dh12m) and a potential €2.5m (Dh10m) in wages.
The Boss have not budgeted to spend great sums during this transfer window. They only spent €2.5m to land Friday night’s match-winning winger Danillo Asprilla and would be looking at a similar amount for a new centre forward, unless something extraordinary appears.
