Pro League champions sign Olympic team defender on long-term deal

Mohamed Ahmed, the UAE Olympic team defender, has moved from Al Shabab to Al Ain, signing a five-year deal with the champions.

Mohamed Obaid Hamad, the team manager of the Garden City club said the 23 year old had been a long-standing target for Cosmin Olaroiu, the Al Ain coach, and that his arrival represents a significant addition to the squad.

"He is a young player of high technical skills and with experience of playing for both, the senior national and the Olympic teams," Obaid Hamad said.

Ahmed is the club's second major Emirati signing of the summer, coming quickly after Yaqoub Al Hosani, the 25-year-old midfielder, signed from Al Wahda on a three-year deal.

Ahmed said his decision to move from Shabab was not motivated purely by the financial gains but also the potential of winning championship titles.

"I have enjoyed my time at Shabab but I have to move on when an opportunity opens like the one I have received from Al Ain," he said.

"Al Ain are one of the big teams in the country and I believe they have the potential to challenge for trophies in the coming years. The contract is for five years and that provides me with a good future with them.

"It is a great opportunity for me and looking forward for the new season with them."

The loss of Ahmed is a further blow to Shabab who look set to lose their coach, Paulo Bonamigo, to Al Jazira.

Meanwhile, Shehab Ahmed, the Al Ain midfielder, has crossed move to Ajman at the player's request, according to Obaid Hamad.

The 28 year old has spent most of his time on the bench at Al Ain.

apassela@thenational.ae

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