Theo Bucker has been confirmed as Emirates club’s new manager, little more than one week after Dibba announced he had agreed an extension with them.
The German's future has been the subject of much confusion these past few days, with Emirates claiming last Thursday he had signed a deal only for Dibba to deny any such arrangement could take place. Last season, Bucker guided the newly promoted side to 10th in the Arabian Gulf League.
However, Emirates posted news of Bucker’s arrival on their official social media accounts on Tuesday, with the veteran manager, 67, replacing Paulo Comelli in the dugout for next season. The contract was signed late Monday at the club’s base in Ras Al Khaimah, with a press conference to be held at a later date. Dibba, who originally announced Bucker’s extension on June 10, have reportedly considered taking legal action against him.
In a statement released by Emirates, Bucker thanked the club’s board for trusting him to turn around the team’s fortunes following last season’s disappointing 12th-place finish.
“I am pleased to work with Emirates club, where a family spirit reigns,” Bucker said. “All the elements for success are here, which prompted me to accept the offer. I will put all my energy and experience to succeed with Emirates club and achieve the hopes and expectations of the club and its fans.”
Bucker has been presented with a list of potential signings and is expected to give his recommendations within the next 48 hours. Emirates then begin pre-season on July 16, with a European training camp to take place from July 25. As of yet, the location of the camp has not been decided.
Bucker added: “All Emirates club fans should be aware that the only way to succeed is through the cooperation between the club board, the technical and administrative staffs, the players and the public, who are the first and most important player in the team. The more together the group, the easier the work will be. Neither the coach nor the players can achieve any success in the absence of these elements.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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