UAE football's new era: Zlatko Dalic, Ismail Matar and Brazil-born stars chase Gulf Cup glory
With a new imported coach and a raft of potential debutants who learnt the game overseas, it might be assumed the latest fresh start for UAE football will be crafted by foreign expertise. And yet, when the national team begin the Zlatko Dalic era at the Arabian Gulf Cup in Saudi Arabia this week, their most valuable insider could be someone from much closer to home. The UAE play Yemen in Jeddah…
The UAE football team, under the leadership of new coach Zlatko Dalic, is set to begin their campaign at the Arabian Gulf Cup in Saudi Arabia. This new era for UAE football, characterized by imported coaches and players who have gained experience overseas, was confirmed by the team's captain, Sultan Adil. Adil expressed his confidence in Dalic's ability to coach the team, as well as the valuable insights provided by fellow UAE football star Ismail Matar.
Matar, who played a pivotal role in the UAE's victories in the Gulf Cup in 2007 and 2013, will now be part of the coaching staff and share his vast experience with the team. The composition of the national team has evolved since Matar's prime, with the inclusion of naturalized citizens and international players. Among the most exciting additions are Brazilian-born players Guilherme Bala and Yuri Cesar, who have been instrumental in their club's domestic success and their performances in the AFC Champions League.
With an ambitious goal of winning every tournament, Dalic is optimistic about the future of the UAE football team, and the team is eager to make their mark in the Gulf Cup.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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