Al Ain’s quest to impress upon this month’s Club World Cup debut has seen them conclude a free transfer for Mali defensive midfielder Tongo Doumbia and close on the complicated recruitment of ex-Sporting Lisbon playmaker Ruben Ribeiro.
The Boss’ victory in the 2017/18 Arabian Gulf League granted them a berth as the home entrant for the tournament, from December 12-22. This global event has no restrictions on the use of foreigners, unlike the UAE’s top flight that only allows the registration of four non-Emiratis.
Ex-Dinamo Zagreb anchor Doumbia, 29, has signed a two-year arrangement, while a successful conclusion is imminently expected on drafting in Ribeiro. The 31-year-old unilaterally terminated his Sporting contract in the wake of May’s assault on the training ground by angry supporters, though the Portuguese club contest his right to do this and have demanded any suitors pay a €62 million release clause.
These switches will reignite rumours about the long-term futures of half of their resident non-UAE quartet. Brazilian forward Caio has been linked to Porto and his deal expires next summer, while Egypt midfielder Hussein El Shahat is coveted by Al Ahly plus a host of Saudi Professional League-outfits.
“As for Ruben’s file, we are still awaiting the approval letter from FIFA officials on our letter addressed to them through the UAE Football Association and the Players Status Committee to approve the registration of the player,” said chairman Ghanem Al Hajeri.
“The player, himself, has an official document issued by the Portuguese Sports Court and certified by the Portuguese Football Association stipulating that the he a free player. All is on the right track.
“We confirm that the registration processes for both Ruben and Doumbia kicked off on September 31.”
📸| الفريق الأول لكرة القدم يختتم تدريباته اليوم ضمن برنامج تحضيراته لمواجهة فريق الوصل غداً
— Al Ain FC (@alainfcae) December 2, 2018
المزيد من الصور 👇 https://t.co/0dsQDfqJxV #نادي_العين pic.twitter.com/xcXfgrz5Lv
Al Ain play New Zealand’s Team Wellington in December 12’s first-round clash at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium. Holders Real Madrid are the headline entrant among the seven regional Champions League winners, plus Al Ain.
