Brazil striker Jo has vowed to exorcise the pain caused by a lengthy goalless run and “make history” at new club Al Shabab.
Jo, 28, was unveiled as the Hawks’ marquee summer signing last night as they celebrated securing the 20-times-capped international to a three-year contract at a packed press conference.
The move comes after a painful end to his spell at Atletico Mineiro, going more than a year without scoring until his drought was broken in May and suffering a number of disciplinary problems.
Caio Junior’s men are confident Jo will rediscover the form which made him a member of the Canarinho’s World Cup 2014 squad and the ex-Manchester City ace vowed to repay their faith.
He said: “It was a difficult year for me, obviously it is not good when a striker goes more than a year without a goal. But thank God, with the help of my family I have been able to turn it around recently.
“I come here to face a new challenge and I have an aspiration to work my way into the history of the club and the Arabian Gulf League.
“I hope I can go forward in my career, scoring a lot more goals and bringing happiness to the fans of Al Shabab.”
Jo arrives at Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium after a stellar campaign saw them finish third in the top-flight, qualifying for the preliminary stages of the 2015 AFC Champions League and winning the GCC Club Cup.
The challenges ahead saw them seek an upgrade on resident target man Edgar Bruno, whose output decreased to eight AGL strikes last term.
Jo was excited by the determined overtures of boss Caio to recruit him, being inspired to send a video to the club in return saying how much he wanted to join.
“I thank Caio for what he told me in the conversations we had,” the tall former CSKA Moscow, Everton and Galatasaray player said.
“He explained how Shabab works, how the club is a family.
“It is a big club with big plans for the future. I am excited about helping to grow on last season’s tremendous achievements.”
