A Season of Giving and Achievements

Home , Ahmed Khalil, Ali Mabkhout, Al Hassan Saleh, Al Jazira Club, Arabian Gulf Cup, Asamoah Gyan

A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS

SEASON 2016 - 2017

2017 – 2020 STRATEGY…THE ROAD TO THE TOP

ARABIAN GULF 11 HUMANITARIAN ARAB FOOTBALL LEAGUE IS ASIA’S INITIATIVES IN OUR LEGENDS GRACE TOP STADIUMS IN THE YEAR AWARDS CEREMONY OF GIVING SAVE WITH ADIB GHINA

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«A BRIGHT FUTURE»

With the beginning of each season, The Pro League Asian Player of The Year, and Ali Mabkhout the AFC committee is refilled with enthusiasm and ambitions, Asian Cup top goalscorer for the same year, it was as it is the entity that is primarily in charge of devel- the turn of Omar Abdulrahman to join them in the hall opment of UAE football through the various domestic of fame after winning the 2016 Asian Player of The competitions, in addition to proposing and applying Year Award. positive ideas and visions and put them into action, in TO BE WON THIS YEAR In 2016/17, the Arabian Gulf League did not only de- order to achieve high levels of succession and move liver beautiful football and exciting competition, but forward with steady steps to reach our dream of be- it also touched hearts and brought joy to all walks of ing one of the most developed countries in the tech- society with its humanitarian and community initiative nical, administrative and organizational aspects of implemented by the PLC to put into action the instruc- football. We also work on maintaining our position on tions of our wise leaders, in line with the announce- GRAND PRIZES the map of football on the regional and Asian level, ment of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al through continuous effort to progress over time with Nahyan, President of the UAE, declaring 2017 as the big steps forward. Year of Giving in the country. WINNERS EVERY MONTH* The Pro League Committee organizes a number These success stories are dedicated in first place to of projects every season, in addition to introducing the UAE’s wise leadership, which drew the road map and implementing many ideas and development pro- to distinction with their continued support and sound grams and events. These are aimed at raising the advice. We also dedicate these stories to our part- level of local competitions and educating all person- 500542 ners in success; sponsors, clubs, media and fans. 519923 nel in relation with professional clubs by providing We dedicate them to everyone who belongs to the them with up-to-date news to keep up with what is Arabian Gulf League matrix, opening a new page full happening around us in the world of football and the Over AED 90 million has been won by Ghina savers since launch. of continued hard work to deliver an even more excit- developmental changes that International and Asian Join Ghina and you too can be: ing, developed and fiercer competition. federations are creating for global football. 500542 519923 • A winner of AED 3 million every 4 months! What the PLC has delivered since the start of the pro- Delighted, we are, as we conclude an exceptional • One of the 20 winners of AED 10,000 every month. fessional era in 2007/08 until the end of the 2016/17 season in the history of the Arabian Gulf League. is merely a small part of the ideas the committee Saving and winning with Ghina is easy: A season with many a shining spot, a season with holds and aims to bring into reality to further advance everything enjoyable, exciting and humane. A sea- For every AED 20,000 you save in your Ghina Savings Account every calendar month, you and progress UAE football. We continue to strive for son that saw the launch of the 2017-20 strategic plan receive one coupon that is automatically entered into the draw. a brighter future. to be the road map to more excellence. A season that So join Ghina today! Call 800 2882, SMS ‘GHINA’ to 2400 or visit any of our branches. saw the Arabian Gulf League reign supreme in Asia Abdulla Naser Al Junaibi Already an ADIB customer? Open your Ghina Savings Account online in seconds! Earn proﬁt as it was named the top-ranking league in the AFC domestic competitions ranking. Our players climbed Chairman – The Pro League Committee on your balances, and access your savings anytime through ATM, mobile or branches. podiums, after Ahmed Khalil was named the 2015

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Al Ahli, Al Jazira and 6 Al Wahda Share the Season’s Honours

Arabian Gulf League Tops 16 Asian Rankings Twice in a Row

2017 – 2020 Strategic Plan Maps the 26 Road to the Top

Arab Football Legends 30 Shine in Arabian Gulf Awards Gala

Ambitious Projects and 48 Initiatives to Develop the League.

PLC Delivers 11 Initiatives 56 in the Year of Giving.

4 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS FOLLOW US

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 5 AL AHLI, AL WAHDA AND AL JAZIRA SHARE THE SEASON’S TITLES

Following a ninth season of fierce competition or- At the foot of the table, the battle as equally heat- ganised by the PLC, and across four competitions ed. Dibba, Emirates, Kalba and Bani Yas all fought throughout eight months of actions, the 2016/17 sea- to their last breath to avoid relegation to the first di- son came to conclusion on the 14th of May. vision. Ultimately, it was Bani Yas and Kalba who left the Arabian Gulf League while Emirates and Dibba The battle was heated between the professional lived to fight another season. clubs to collect silverware and achieve the honour of climbing on the podium. The Arabian Gulf League Al Wahda and Al Ain fought out the Under 21 League saw competition reach new heights at both ends of until the final round as Al Wahda emerged victorious. the table, especially in the final rounds of the competition. Three clubs shared the 2016/17 season trophies. Al Ahli walked away with the Arabian Gulf Super The race was tight as Al Jazira, Al Wasl, Al Ahli and Cup and the Arabian Gulf Cup titles, Al Jazira were Al Ain fought week in and week out to assume the crowned Arabian Gulf League champions, while Al summit of the table. With one round to go, it was Al Wahda added the President Cup title to their Under Jazira who clinched the title. 21 League success.

AL AHLI CELEBRATE ARABIAN GULF SUPER CUP TRIUMPH IN CAIRO

Al Ahli were crowned the ninth champions of the Ara- bian Gulf Super Cup, lifting the 2016/17 trophy after beating Al Jazira 2-1 on Tuesday the 13th of Septem- ber 2016 at the 30th of June Stadium in the Egyptian capital Cairo.

For the first time in the PLC competitions’ history, the Super Cup was played abroad. A fantastic fan- fare and a tremendous crowd were in present as the players delivered a memorable match in what was an ideal final in all technical, administrative and organisational aspects.

With the victory, Al Ahli reached a record four Super Cup titles, having won the competition in 2008/09, 2013/14, 2014/15 and finally in 2016/17.

Ahmed Khalil receives Arabian Gulf Super Cup Trophy

6 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS CHAMPIONS OF THE SEASON

AND A THIRD ARABIAN GULF CUP TITLE

Al Ahli lifted the 2016/17 Arabian Gulf Cup trophy after beating Al Shabab 2-0 courtesy of a brace from Senegalese striker Makhete Diop in a final that took place on the evening of Saturday the 1st of April 2017 at Al Nasr Club’s Al Maktoum Stadium.

The title is a record third in Al Ahli’s history, after wins in 2011/12 and 2013/14. Al Shabab had won the cup once in 2010/11.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 7 AL JAZIRA ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE CHAMPIONS FOR THE SECOND TIME

8 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS CHAMPIONS OF THE SEASON

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Al Jazira Football Company, His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Marwan bin Ghalita, President of the UAE Football Association, Abdulla Al Junaibi, Chairman of the Pro League Committee and Saeed Al Tunaiji, Vice-President of the UAE Football Association crowned Al Jazira the ninth champions of the Arabian Gulf League for the second time in the club history.

Al Jazira lifted the title after a 4-0 home victory over Al Dhafra in the final round of the 2016/17 season at Abu Dhabi’s Mohamed bin Zayed Stadium on the 12th of May 2017. The win took Al Jazira’s tally to a record-breaking 68 points, beating the previous record of 66 points held by Al Ahli in 2015/16.

Al Jazira had guaranteed winning the league in the penultimate round of the competition after they beat Al Nasr 1-0 courtesy of an Ahmed Al Hashmi goal.

Al Jazira’s 2016/17 Arabian Gulf League campaign was a stellar success, with 22 wins, two draws and as many defeats. Al Jazira’s attackers fired 72 goals in 26 matches, nearly 2.8 goals per game. They conceded just 15 goals, that is 0.6 goals per game as they were named both the best attack and the best defence of the season.

Al Wasl finished the season runners-up with 57 points while Al Ahli came third, just a point behind, securing the final 2018 AFC Champions League qualification spot.

Top goalscorer Ali Mabkhout broke the all-time record for Arabian Gulf League goals scored in a season. Mabkhout registered 33 goals in the 2016/17 season, two strikes more than the 31 scored by Gyan Asamo- ah in 2012/13 while at Al Ain.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 9 LEAGUE STANDINGS

Teams relegated to the first division

10 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS CHAMPIONS OF THE SEASON

Ahmed Khalil Caio Canedo Fares Jumaa

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 11 AL WAHDA WIN THE UNDER 21 LEAGUE

Sheikh Ahmed bin Naser Al Nahyan crowned Al Wahda with the Under 21 League title after they finished the season on top of the table, beating Al Shabab 1-0 in the final match of the season at Abu Dhabi’s Al Nahyan Stadium on the 14th of May 2017. Abdulla Al Junaibi, Chairman of the Pro League Committee, Hamad Al Darmaki, Vice-President of Al Wahda Club, Ahmed Al Romaithi, CEO of Al Wahda Club Football Company and Abdulhameed Al Mestaka, Member of The Executive Office and Head of The Technical Committee at the PLC all participated in the crowning ceremony.

The final day victory over Al Shabab took Al Wahda’s tally to 64 points, to lead the table and seal the title with a five-points gap over Al Ain who conceded a 3-4 defeat in the final round against Kalba to freeze at 59 points.

Al Wahda emerged on top after a hard-fought battle with Al Ain. A successful season saw the Abu Dhabi side win 20 matches, draw four times and lose just two while runners-up Al Ain won 19 times, drew twice and lost five.

The Under 21 League goalscoring race saw Al Jazira forward Ahmed Al Hashemi brush-off competition with 22 goals. His ten-goal exploits against Al Dhafra in the final round earned him the Silver Shoe. Dibba’s Ahmed Rashid came second with 19 goals while Al Wahda’s Mohamed Al Hammadi was third with 18 goals.

12 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS CHAMPIONS OF THE SEASON

U21 STANDINGS

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 13 AND THE PRESIDENT’S CUP His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Rashid Al Mak- toum, Vice-President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai crowned Al Wahda the 2016/17 President’s Cup Champions After They Beat Al Nasr 3-0 on Friday the 19th of May 2017.

The President’s Cup triumph hands Al Wahda the third spot in the 2018 AFC Champions League group stage alongside Arabian Gulf League champions Al Jazira and runners-up Al Wasl.

Mohamed Bin Rashid crowns Al Wahda with the President’s Cup

Al Wahda players celebrate winning the President’s Cup

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“ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE NAMED ASIA’S BEST TWICE IN A ROW IN SAME SEASON”

The Arabian Gulf League retained its place at the top Reaching and retaining the top spot is a testament of the Asian leagues rankings in the AFC’s Club Com- to the hardwork based on frim foundation and a clear petitions rankings issued in February and June 2017. vision by all parties involved in the professional matrix of Emirati football. Consecutive boards of the Pro The top three places in the table remained the same, League Committee worked on a distinctive strategy with the UAE top of the rankings with 95.428 points, to develop the league and create a valuable product followed by South Korea with 89.128. The UAE’s lead which becomes a role model to follow. came in the wake of Al Ain’s progress to the quar- ter-finals of the 2017 AFC Champions League, as well as the UAE national team’s continued presence in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

16 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS “TOPPING THE RANKINGS A BOOST & FURTHER EVIDENCE OF UAE FOOTBALL PROGRESS” HE Major General Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, Member of the AFC Executive Council and Board Member of Abu Dhabi Sports Council lauded the importance of the Arabian Gulf League’s achievement in being Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi ranked top of the AFC’s competitions ranking and its ball and further evidence of the stature the Arabian role in bringing more success and achievements to Gulf League has achieved among the continent’s UAE representatives in continental competitions. leagues, His Excellency went on to applaud the efforts of the Pro League Committee throughout the Describing the achievement as a boost to UAE foot- past nine seasons in addition to the role of clubs and their commitment to uphold the highest criteria for their ability to represent the country in the best possi- professionalism and development in technical, ad- ble image as an evidence of the progress the Arabian ministrative, marketing and organisational aspects. Gulf League is making to reach this ranking.

His Excellency stressed that the strength of the His Excellency concluded by emphasising on the league contributed to the league champions’ pro- importance of continuing the effort to achieve more gress to the AFC Champions League final in the past success for the league and clubs to reflect on total two editions, reflecting the stature of our clubs and development of UAE football. “ACHIEVEMENT IS A RESULT OF SHEIKH HAZZA’S INSTRUCTIONS” Abdulla Naser Al Junaibi, Chairman of the PLC believes the league’s latest ranking is natural, “Ranking at the top of Asian competitions is a natural result of the instructions of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of Abu Dha- bi’s Executive Council and Honorary President of the UAE Football Federation”, Al Junaibi added, “His Highness’ continuous support resulted in the league reaching the summit of the AFC’s rankings for the first time in history after the introduction of the pro league in 2008”. Abdulla Naser Al Junaibi Speaking about the future, the chairman said, “Our partners, sponsors, media and fans. “The clubs put challenge is now to maintain the top spot, to work great efforts to improve the playing levels of their harder to win silverware and the results to keep us teams by delivering good results for the country in the top of the rankings. Al Junaibi revealed this recent Asian competitions. The PLC developed the league’s success had been an objective all the way through, organisational and administrative side and worked “Since the start of the pro league in 2008, our goal with the clubs to develop infrastructure and facilities, was to be amongst the top three leagues in Asia. We season after season. Not just to meet the criteria set always wanted to be the best and the consecutive by the AFC’s club licensing regulations, but to exceed boards of the committee all worked to develop the them and implement best practices. The league’s league towards this objective.” partners and sponsors continued their support while the media’s excellent coverage raised the profile of Al Junaibi stressed that this success was only made the league. possible by the joint efforts of the PLC, the clubs,

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 17 Mohammed bin Thaloub Al Darei Mohamed Ebraheem Al Mahmoud

“ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE “TOPPING ASIAN RANKINS IS AN REACHED NEW HEIGHTS” ACHIEVEMENT & A

Mohammed bin Thaloub Al Darei, Chairman of The RESPONSIBILITY” Board of Al Ain Cub Investment Company is adamant His Excellency Mohamed Ebraheem Al Mahmoud, the league and the club’s fully deserved ranking is Vice President of the General Authority for Youth and an expected and natural result for the efforts of both Sports Welfare and Chairman and Managing Director over the past four years. Bin Thaloub highlighted the of Abu Dhabi Media, lauded the efforts of the PLC tangible progress and success of the league over the since its establishment nearly a decade ago with the years, which has reflected on the performances of objective of being one of the top three leagues in the the UAE National Team thanks to the work of the UAE continent. Football Association and the Pro League Committee, resulting in a bronze medal for the national team in the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, semi-final for Al Ain in the 2014 AFC Champions League and the final of the Al Mahmoud added, “Today we are top of the rank- same competition in 2016 as well as Al Ahli reaching ings, we need to study the factors that brought us the same final in 2015. here, maintain them and improve. At the same time, we need to identify the challenges and work together Bin Thaloub expressed his thanks and gratitude to with UAEFA and the clubs to overcome those chal- everyone involved in development tasks in the UAE- lenges. We are all in the same boat, success reflects FA and the PLC, declaring that the league and club on all of us and adds to everyone in the system and we have now pulled the rug from under the feet of east equally all pay for any failure. In my opinion, reaching Asian leagues in Korea, Japan and China. the top of the Asian rankings is a big responsibility. It is difficult to reach the top, but even more difficult to stay there. We have great confidence in everyone at the PLC to continue the successes and enhance the professional experience we started in time and went a long distance”.

18 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Arif Hamad Al Awani Abdulaziz Al Noman

“PROUD OF OUR LEAGUE “PERSISTENCE & JOINT RANKING NUMBER ONE” EFFORTS OUR WAY TO Arif Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu VICTORIES” Dhabi Sports Council applauded the Arabian Gulf League’s achievement in ranking top of the AFC’s Abdulaziz Al Noman, Secretary General of Sharjah latest competition rankings, calling the achievement, Sports Council described the Arabian Gulf League’s “An important addition to the growth and development topping of the AFC’s rankings as “Expected in light of of UAE football in recent years under the continuous the instructions of the wise leadership to always be support and attention from the nation’s wise leaders”. number one”. Al Noman added, “Al Ahli and Al Ain reaching the AFC Champions League final in 2015 and 2016 respectively, had a big impact on the rankings. They both presented a true and special image Al Awani spoke of pride of the achievement, high- of UAE football. lighting the role of Al Ahli and Al Ain reaching the AFC Champions League final in consecutive years Al Noman concluded, “Our goal now is to retain the in enhancing the reputation of UAE football. “We are top spot by achieving positive results on club level proud of this advanced position which came as a and national team level. Persistence and joint efforts result of nine years of hard work and efforts by the are our only way to victories”. PLC and clubs whose results in recent years signif- icantly contributed to achieving maximum points on the AFC’s ranking system, leading the Arabian Gulf League to the top spot in Asia. It is a big responsibility to further this success with more hard work and positive results”.

Al Awani congratulated the UAEFA and the PLC on the occasion and expressed his best wishes for the league to be at the top in all aspects to help the growth and development of UAE football and clubs.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 19 Waleed Al Hosani Dato Windsor John

“WE ALWAYS WANT TO BE THE “WE WILL CONTINUE BEST” SUPPORTING UAE LEAGUE” Waleed Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the Pro League AFC General Secretary Dato Windsor John congrat- Committee considers the AFC’s ranking of the Ara- ulated the UAE on behalf of the AFC, lauding the pro- bian Gulf League “A fair ranking”, explaining, “Since gress made by the UAE Pro League. He announced its start, the Arabian Gulf League has been making the AFC is dedicated, as a part of their Vision and steady strides towards the best. We always want to Mission, to supporting Member Associations as they be the best in all aspects; technical, administrative, strive to continue to improve. marketing and organisational. We put in all efforts alongside our partners in the professional matrix in- Windsor concluded, “The UAE is an important mem- cluding clubs, sponsors, media channels and fans, to ber of the AFC and we will continue to support them deliver the vision of our wise leadership to always be and indeed all our 47 Member Associations in the number one”. pursuit of football excellence”.

“IT’S NATURAL TO BE TOP WITH OUR LEADERS’ UNLIMITED SUPPORT” Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajri, Chairman of Al Ain Foot- ball Club hailed the success strategy laid out by His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of Abu Dhabi’s Executive Council and Hon- Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajri orary President of the UAE Football Federation as the driver behind the recent success for UAE football. Al Hajri considered topping the Asian rankings “natu- “The accelerating steps the UAE is taking in keeping ral under the generous support and unlimited atten- up with progress in all aspects of life and reaching the tion the country’s leadership pays to sports”, adding, top of success indicators in various areas is worthy “This ranking doubles the responsibility of UAE clubs, of interest and everyone living on this land should be to represent the UAE as best as they can to get the proud of it”. best results and prove our worthiness of topping the rankings across the continent”.

20 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Mustafa Al Agha

“CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU & TO US ARABS” Arab sports media icon Mustafa Al Agha congratulated the UAE for the achievement that he described as “A pleasant surprise”, saying, “For the Arabian Gulf League to overtake popular leagues like the Saudi, Japanese and South Korean and even the Iranian League is not unsubstantiated. Some people questioned the ranking although it is produced by the governing entity of Asian football based on Jap- anese experience. Fans attendance is not the only criteria. There are a lot of areas ordinary fans do not pay attention to. This puts added pressure on UAE football to take the lead through results, trophies and attendance which I believe is still weak relative to the “FAIR RANKING” strength of the competition, the big names present and the fantastic stadiums in the country. This rank- Mohamed Al Bada, Head of Sports Section at Al It- ing is an honour for everyone involved in the Arabian tihad newspaper expressed his delight with Gulf League, so congratulation to you and to us as the achievement, saying, “It is very beautiful for the Arabs”. Arabian Gulf League to top the AFC’s competitions rankings. For us to have four spots in the Champions League and be ahead of everyone with our 96 points, this lead deserves to be made into something beyond papers and points. We must move beyond ratings to development and change. The latest ranking paid us justice, but we paid ourselves justice too with the results UAE clubs have achieved in the Champions League over the past four years. Regardless of titles that were so close, the truth is that we (especially Al Ahli and Al Ain) have brushed off the dust and delivered achievements that make us a recognised Mohamed Al Bada power in Asian football”. mission is now with Al Ain in the AFC Champions Al Bada concluded, “We must retain our lead and League this year. Hopes are on them to get the title become true giants in Asia, making the Arabian Gulf after two consecutive years in the final”. League a model for the continent to learn from. The

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 21 Ahmed Al Houri Journalist Kifah Al Kaabi Ahmed Abu Al Shayeb

“RANKING SHOWS VALUE OF “HATS OFF FOR EVERYONE IN HARD WORK.” CHARGE OF THE LEAGUE” Ahmed Al Houri, Head of Sports Section at Al Bayan Journalist Kifah Al Kaabi paid tribute to the people newspaper called the Arabian Gulf League’s ranking behind the success of the Arabian Gulf League for at the top of the AFC’s competitions ranking “A de- the success, highlighting the success of the compe- served valuation of the hard work put to achieve lead- tition in overtaking more historically establish coun- ership in football in accordance to our leadership’s tries league Japan, Korea and Saudi Arabia. instruction to always be number one”. Al Kaabi added, “We always had comments and criti- Al Houri added, “This is also an evidence of the pro- cisms of the Arabian Gulf League, but ultimately they gress the league and UAE clubs are making, whether were meant to drive the league to be the best, so hats it is two UAE clubs reaching consecutive AFC Cham- off for the PLC since its start to date”. pions League finals, or upholding the highest standards in maintaining AFC requirements”.

“WE ARE ON THE RIGHT TRACK” Ahmed Abu Al Shayeb, Head of Sports at “Emarat Al Youm” newspaper expressed his pleasure with the ranking. “It is a positive indicator that we are on the right track in terms of organisation of the league and paying attention for all aspects, balanc- ing the interest of clubs and supporting entities. It is a testament to the good work the developing PLC is doing. I hope this reflects on the clubs and they can rise to the top level of professional work to drive UAE football forward”.

22 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 23 Chris McHardy Dia Eldin Ali

“RICHLY DESERVED” “DESERVED REWARD FOR UAE Chris McHardy, Head of Sports at the Arabian Radio FOOTBALL” Network (ARN), hailed the Arabian Gulf League’s re- Dia Eldin Ali, Head of Sports Section at Al Khaleej cent achievement as a “Richly Deserved” honour. “I newspaper believes the AFC’s latest ranking is a de- am not surprised the AFC have bestowed the honour served reward for UAE football, calling it “A big jump of ‘best league in Asia’ on the Arabian Gulf League. for the Arabian Gulf League”. Richly deserved. It’s a competition that has grown exponentially in the six and a half years that I have Ali insists the achievement creates positive energy resided in the country, both on and off the pitch.” and drive for the national team as they prepare for a crucial stage in the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. “From Diego Maradona to Asamoah Gyan,” McHar- Adding, “The newly adopted criteria by the AFC are dy added, “the league has had no problem attract- more reflective of the levels of the continent’s domes- ing big names to these shores. The infrastructure is tic competitions”. He called on the clubs representing improving steadily and while attendances remain an the UAE in the Champions League to rise up to the issue, steps are being taken to address this in the responsibility, hoping one of them lifts the trophy that long-term. The most exciting aspect though is that eluded Al Ahli and Al Ain in the past two finals. there is still so much untapped potential”.

24 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 25 ACHIEVEMENTS

THE STRATEGIC PLAN 2017-2020. A ROAD MAP TOWARDS EXCELLENCE

Nahyan Bin Mubarak launches the Strategic Plan

Under the patronage and presence of His High- The strategic plan aims to achieve leadership and ness Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Min- develop the professionalism matrix in collaboration ister of Culture and Knowledge Development, the with the clubs through four main themes; Profes- Pro League Committee launched in March 2017 its sionalism, Partnerships, Financial Independence new strategic plan for the period 2017-2020. The and Brand. The first theme emphasises on raising plan was launched in a ceremony held at Abu Dhabi’s the level of Emirati professionals and train them to Dusit Thani Hotel in the presence of Abdulla Naser Al lead clubs and national teams to deliver outstand- Junaibi, Vice President of the UAE Football Associa- ing achievements on local and international levels. tion, Chairman of the Pro League Committee; Yousef The second theme looks at developing strong, fruit- Mohammed Rasool Al Khoory, Vice Chairman of the ful partnerships with partners inside and outside the Executive Office of the Pro League Committee; Mo- UAE with desire and ability to drive professionalism hammed Al Hammadi and Abdulhameed Al Mesta- in the UAE forward. The third theme, Financial In- ka, Members of the PLC’s Executive Office; Waleed dependence, aims to activate financing through at- Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the PLC; Abdulmohsen Al tracting sponsors and financiers in public and private Dosari, Assistant Secretary-General of the General sectors. The fourth and final theme is concerned with Authority of Youth & Sports Welfare; Dr. Kasim Kana- developing the brand to be a leading brand in the kri, CEO of Team Power International; Ghanim Al Ha- GCC and Asia. jri, Chairman of Al Ain Football Company; Ahmed Al Romaithi, Chairman of Al Wahda Football Company; The strategy includes sub-themes related to clubs’ and a number of Arabian Gulf League Club officials. financial performance, aiming to rationalise operat- ing expenses, finding new and diversified revenue

26 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS sources for clubs through investments, developing relationships with partners and sponsors and max- imising football fan base.

The strategy addresses the corporate aspects to promote sports innovation culture, developing and training qualified cadre, developing and increasing reliance on smart technology, developing systems, policies, administrative and technical regulations and sports marketing and promotion processes.

The PLC formed work teams to oversee implementing the initiatives, programs and projects listed in the strategic plan and following up with clubs and assessing progress. To this end, several initiatives will be implemented; the archiving and developing of the PLC’s visual content, football innovation, smart apps and technology, win-win partnerships and sponsorships, corporate systems and policies, Emiratisation and development of human resources, social media networks, corporate performance management system, investment portfolio, assets and properties, brand strategy, 7-star customer services and sports professionalism culture.

AL JUNAIBI: THE STRATEGY IS OUR ROAD MAP TO EXCELLENCE

Pro League Committee Chariman, Abdulla Nas- work and directive for our projects and initiatives in er al Junaibi is adamant the PLC is keen on contin- all aspects related to football to achieve our ultimate ued cooperation with clubs to make the new strate- target of continuity, leadership and distinction and de- gic plan a success. Al Junaibi explained that the PLC veloping football and professionalism”. had conducted several workshops and meetings with clubs before launching the new strategic plan, de- The PLC Chairman revealed initiatives targeting hu- scribing the clubs as a key part of this work. He add- man and administrative cadre in clubs through speed that efforts from all parties led to this successful cialised courses to qualify and train club officials launch, emphasising the importance of the new stra- to the professional administrator license in various tegic plan and its role in developing the professional- fields, adding that marketing the Arabian Gulf League ism matrix. through initiatives will benefit clubs in all areas.

Al Junaibi considers maintaining the Arabian Gulf Al Junaibi stressed that the initiatives will be periodi- League’s ranking as the top Asian league, as recently cally monitored by the designated work teams which announced by the AFC, the biggest challenge facing will monitor implementation with clubs, the PLC’s ex- both the PLC and clubs in the upcoming period, call- ecutive office will assess the progress periodically, ing on everyone involved on continuing their efforts to reporting to the PLC’s board of directors. keep the UAE league on top.

Discussing the strategic plan, Al Junaibi comment- ed, “The strategic plan was launched after meetings, workshops and discussions with club officials. It does not mention any specific names, it is rather a frame-

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 27 Discussion Session on the Strategic Plan AL KHOORY: STRATEGIC PLAN opportunity to improve work in our internal structure and set up higher standards and criteria for self-as- IS THE ROAD MAP FOR PLC’S sessment in the next few years until the end of our WORK mandate. We are confident that, with the help of the clubs, we can achieve a lot”. Mohammed Rasool Al Khoory, Vice President of the Executive Office of the Pro League Committee be- AL MESTAKA: CLUBS SHOULD lieves the strategic plan is a roadmap for the committee’s work in upcoming years, and an initiative that will INVEST IN THEIR STARS allow the PLC to continue the great work achieved in Abdulhameed Al Mestaka, Member of the Pro recent years. Al Khoory stressed on the importance League Committee’s Executive Office, Head of the of cooperation between the PLC, clubs and all parties Technical Committee called for the clubs’ investment involved in the Arabian Gulf League to implement the companies to benefit from big names and foreign strategy and contribute to the development of UAE players in increasing club revenues through shirt football, highlighting the achievement of the Arabian sales, adding that this has the potential to bring in Gulf League being named the top in Asia. good revenues. Al Khoory added, “Our wide leadership, the govern- Al Mestaka highlighted the importance of integrat- ment, is the role model we follow. They always aim ing all aspects of the football industry, “You cannot to be number one. We were fortunate to lead the separate financial aspect from technical aspects. In AFC’s domestic competitions ranking, but there is a the strategic plan, launched today, we aim to main- big challenge on the shoulders of everyone involved tain our position as the best league in Asia by putting in UAE football and that is to maintain our progress more efforts in technical, financial and promotional and look for more. The responsibility is not just on aspects in partnership with clubs”. the PLC; everyone is a partner in this. We have to work hand-in-hand to make sure the UAE is always top”. Al Khoory concluded, “The strategic plan is an

28 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS Discussion Session on the Strategic Plan AL HAJRI: WE MUST INVEST named the top league in Asia, “This massive progress the league has made must be matched by an OUR LEAGUE’S TOP POSITION. equal level of new technology adoption. Using new technologies and smart apps increased the value of Mr. Ghanim Al Hajri, Chairman of Al Ain Football the league and contributes to more success”. Company revealed the club started to invest in sport very early and now possesses excellent sporting facilities and a human capital represented by the ath- KANAKRI: 25% OF THE PLAN IS letes. The club is looking forward to developing those ABOUT FINANCIAL INDEPEND- assets and marketing them in collaboration with the Pro League Committee according to Al Hajri, “Our ENCE. League is the top in Asia thanks to the hardwork of Team Power International CEO, Dr. Kasim Kana- everyone involved. We must invest this position to kri lauded the fact that 25% of the strategic plan is bring the revenues clubs need”. oriented towards financial independence, highlighting the importance of this factor in developing the work AL HAMMADI: AGL NEEDS environment and contribution to achieving targets, TECHNOLOGIES MATCHING ITS “If the PLC is able to rely on self-financing and can enhance its financial position through partnerships, TECHNICAL PROGRESS. it will be able to provide more support to all parts of the system, starting with the clubs”, he added, “My Mohammed Al Hammadi, Member of the Pro League perspective is that strengthening the PLC’s financial Committee’s Executive Office believes the new stra- situation will provide financial support for clubs and tegic plan prioritised technology and smart apps as develop professionalism”. part of the strategic initiatives to be implemented in collaboration with clubs, highlighting increased reli- Kanakri highlighted collaboration between the PLC ance on smart technology as one of the strategy’s and the clubs as “The beating heart of the strategic key objectives. plan”, stressing on the importance of coordination and cooperation between all parties involved in the Al Hammadi applauded the progress of the Arabian Arabian Gulf League and emphasising the impor- Gulf League in recent years, culminating in being tance of hard work for further development.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 29 STARS OF THE SEASON SHINE IN AN EXCEPTIONAL GALA His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahy- Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, His Excel- an, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, lency Major General Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi, Chairman of The General Authority of Youth and Marwan bin Ghalita and the audience. Al Junaibi laud- Sports Welfare honoured the stars of the 2016/17 ed the 2016/17 season as an extraordinary, exciting Arabian Gulf League season in a delightful celebra- season in which the Arabian Gulf League topped the tion organised by the Pro League Committee at Abu ranking of Asian leagues, saw Emirati players climb Dhabi’s Jumeirah Etihad Towers on the evening of the podiums and a number of touching humanitarian Monday the 15th of May. initiatives took place.

The celebration was attended by His Excellency The following Arabian Gulf League partners were Major General Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi Com- honoured during the ceremony; Arabian Gulf Devel- mander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, Member of The opment, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Emirates Airlines, AFC Executive Office; Marwan bin Ghalita, President Audi, Etisalat, Abu Dhabi Sports Channels, Dubai of The UAE Football Association and Abdulla Nasir Al Sports Channels, Live HD Production, Abu Dhabi Junaibi, Chairman of The PLC. Also, participating in Sports Council, Dubai Sports Council and Sharjah the ceremony were Arab football legends; Egyptian Sports Council. football star Mahmoud El Khatib, former winner of The African Golden Ball; Saudi football legend Majed In the statistics-based awards, Saud Al Alili was hon- Abdulla, one of the best Arab players of all times in oured as The AGL Fantasy Manager of the year with addition to Emirati football icon Fahd Khamis. High- 1619 points. Al Wahda Club were also honoured as lights of the season past and the best goals scored The Professional Club of The Year, Al Jazira striker by the various teams were displayed throughout the Ali Mabkhout was honoured with the Golden Shoe ceremony. as the Arabian Gulf League top goalscorer while Al Jazira Under 21 forward Ahmed Al Hashemi was The ceremony started with a speech by the PLC crowned the Under 21 League top goalscorer, taking Chairman, Al Junaibi who welcomed His Highness home the Silver Shoe.

Ali Khaseif Best Goalkeeper Cosmin Olario receives the Leader Award

30 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Ali Mabkhout Best Emirati Player Fabio De lima Best Foreign Player

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 31 The vote-based awards were as follows:

The Leader Award for the best coach: Cosmin Olaroiu – Al Ahli

The Golden Boy Award for the best promising player: Khalfan Mubarak – Al Jazira

The Golden Glove Award for the best goalkeeper: Ali Khaseif – Al Jazira.

The Golden Ball Award for the best foreign player: Fabio de Lima – Al Wasl

The Golden Ball Award for the best Emirati player: Ali Mabkhout – Al Jazira

The final section of the gala was the announcement Mabkhout: Ten Cate and The Players Are Behind and honouring of the best XI of the season which in- My Success cluded; Al Jazira’s Ali Khaseif in goal, behind his club teammates Mohamed Fawzi, Fares Juma and Salem Arabian Gulf League Golden Shoe and Golden Ball Rashid. Al Ain defender Ismail Ahmed rounds the winner Ali Mabkhout credited his manager Henk ten back four while a four-man midfield contains Al Nasr’s Cate and his teammates for the awards, adding that Tareq Ahmed, Khalfan Mubarak from Al Jazira, Fabio his triumph is a reward for all Al Jazira players for de Lima from Al Wasl and Omar Abdulrahman from Al their efforts and that the coaching staff are the ones Ain. In attack, top goalscorer Ali Mabkhout is joined to thank. by Al Ahli striker Makhete Diop.

Ali Mabkhout Khalfan Mubarak Fabio De lima Ali Khaseif Mabkhout reflected on a “special season” for Al Jazira Mubarak also dedicated the award to his own family as they won the league title, wishing his international which he says, “supported me and stood by my side teammates and Golden Ball finalists, Omar Abdul- to do my best all season”. The midfielder considers rahman and Ahmed Khalil, good luck for next season the award a motivation for him to work harder in order to win the award. to become a key member of the UAE national team.

Al Jazira striker discussed playing in Europe, saying Khaseif: Team Spirit the Secret Behind Al Jazira’s his ambition is to play abroad, but the final decision Triumph. rests with Al Jazira should he receive any offers. Arabian Gulf League Golden Glove Award winner Ali Mubarak: The Award Is a Motivation to Work Khaseif did not expect to win the award, citing strong Harder competition from his UAE teammates Majed Nasser and Khaled Essa who both had a good season according to Khaseif.

Arabian Gulf League Golden Boy award winner Khal- Al Jazira goalkeeper dedicated the win to his parents fan Mubarak dedicated his win to Al Jazira “family”, and family and to his Al Jazira teammates, crediting represented by the board of directors, the players team spirit at the club for the award and for Al Jazira’s and the coaching staff. triumph this season.

32 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

Wahib Al Khazarji Saeed Al Tunaiji Ayman Yunis Mahmoud Al Khatib Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi Fabio de Lima: An Important Award in My Career. El Khatib extended his gratitude to the Pro League Committee for the invitation, adding that he did not Arabian Gulf League Golden Ball Award winner for hesitate to accept it. the foreign player category, Fabio de Lima expressed his delight with the award, which he described as “Im- The former Zamalek player congratulated winning portant in his career”. players in individual awards, explaining that occasions like this represent some of the best moments Lima dedicated the award to his coach Rodolfo Ar- for any football player as he feels his efforts being ruabarrena and fellow Al Wasl players who worked appreciated by others. hard to take the club into second place in the league and to earn AFC Champions League qualification. El Khatib praised the level of Emirati players, insist- The Brazilian explained the team’s ambition goes ing the UAE boasts some talented players who can beyond participation in the Asian competition, adding offer a lot more with more practice and coaching. The that everyone at Al Wasl wants to go far in the Cham- former African Player of The Year hoped to see Egyp- pions League. tian players in the Arabian Gulf League, adding that there are a number of Egyptian players capable of Younis: A Celebration Worthy of The Beauty of playing abroad. Emirati Football Al Rumaithi: Al Jazira Deserved the Title Former Zamalek and Egypt national team star Ay- man Younis spoke of his delight to attend the Arabi- Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police Major an Gulf League Awards ceremony, describing it as a General Mohamed Khalfan Al Rumaithi considers wonderful celebration worthy of the beauty of Emirati the 2016/17 Arabian Gulf League a success despite football, adding that all details of the ceremony were some criticisms and protests about refereeing and worked out professionally. other issues that he labelled “natural”. He added that organising the Arabian Gulf League Awards ceremo- Younis explained the celebration is the culmination of ny immediately after the end of the league season is a full season where everybody worked hard with ded- an additional indicator of the success of the compe- ication and solidarity. He congratulated Al Jazira for tition. their league triumph and expressed his best wishes for Emirati football. Al Rumaithi congratulated Al Jazira for winning the league title, stressing that they deserved their tri- El Khatib: Happy to Participate in Honouring umph with the excellent performances they deliv- Stars ered, breaking records and introducing young players who broke into the first team and proved their Egyptian football legend Mahmoud El Khatib spoke worth throughout the season. Al Rumaithi reserved of his delight to participate in the Arabian Gulf League special praise for Arabian Gulf League top goal scor- Awards, expressing his pleasure to meet old mates er Ali Mabkhout, lauding his ability to beat many for- Fahd Khamis and Majed Abdulla after long years, eign strikers to top the goal-scoring chart. hoping that the involvement of former players in the ceremony brings joy to winning players. The Major General discussed the awards ceremony, calling it a “good tradition” organised annually by the

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 33 PLC. He went on to say that the 2016/17 season was of the UAE, declaring 2017 the year of giving in the very competitive at both ends of the table, further country. The chairman valued the participation of confirming the strength of the league. clubs and PLC employees in the implementation of the initiatives highlighted by teamwork. Al Junaibi: We Strive for Excellence Under Our Leaders Guidance “Football is not just a game, and sport is not just about winning or losing”, explained Al Junaibi, “There is a Pro League Committee Chairman Abdulla Naser Al huge humanitarian and social role that sports must Junaibi says the PLC has a lot to offer for the im- play in people’s lives. Through these initiatives, we provement of its competitions, explaining that the hope to integrate football in the society we consider committee follows the guidance of the UAE’s lead- ourselves an essential part of”. ership which constantly aspires for excellence and targets being number one in all aspects. He went on Al Junaibi vowed to add more categories to the Arabi- to stress that everyone at the PLC works hard to be an Gulf League Awards to include all parties involved up to the expectations of the UAE leadership, adding in the league system, to encourage fair competition that the PLC always aspires to develop and reach the between everyone in order to develop the Arabian level of excellence to which the country aspires. Gulf League.

The PLC Chairman congratulated the winning clubs, Al Hosani: Award Ceremony Enriched by Arab players and coaches for their achievements, calling Football Legends for the remaining players and teams to work harder to receive the honour of winning silverware, wish- The Pro League Committee’s Acting CEO, Waleed ing everyone better luck in years to come. Al Junaibi Al Hosani, expressed his delight with the presence praised the sponsors and partners for their notable of Arab football legends at the Arabian Gulf League role in the league’s success. He values the efforts of Awards ceremony, extending his thanks and grati- everyone involved in the PLC. tude to the three icons; Fahd Khamis, Majed Abdulla and Mahmoud El Khatib, lauding their presence as Al Junaibi discussed the PLC’s community and hu- “enriching” to the season end celebration. manitarian initiatives organised throughout the past season in line with the announcement by His High- Discussing the awards results, Al Hosani acknowl- ness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President edged that there were surprises in some of the

Khalfan Mubarak receives Golden Boy Award Nahyan Bin Mubarak hands Best Player Award to Mabkhout

34 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

winning names, going against the odds in some cat- good season, wishing everyone luck in their efforts to egories. grow and develop Emirat football.

Al Hosani expects an exciting Arabian Gulf League Al Tunaiji: A Strong, Exciting and Competitive season in 2017/18, highlighting some of the chal- Season lenges the competition faced this season and the humanitarian and community initiatives organised UAE Football Association Vice-President Saeed Al throughout the season. The Acting CEO stressed on Tunaiji hailed the 2016/17 as an exciting and com- the PLC’s keenness to deliver the best next season, petitive season where teams competed hard in every hoping the Arabian Gulf League continues to improve round. in all aspects. Al Tunaiji congratulated the PLC on the season’s Al Khazraji: League Importance Encouraged Us success, applauding the league’s top goal scorer Ali to Sponsor It Mabkhout for his achievement, hoping he translates his league form to the benefit of the national team. Wahib Hassan Al Khazraji, Human Resources De- partment President at Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB) discussed the bank’s decision to sponsor the Arabian Gulf League, “We believe in the role of sport in society and we were keen to sponsor this competition as an importance sporting event”, said Al Khazraji, who highlighted the importance for of the Arabian Gulf League and the great interest of the UAE leadership in the competition as factors that helped ADIB in making the decision to sponsor it.

Al Khazraji praised the quality of organisation at the Arabian Gulf League Awards ceremony, expressing his pleasure to participate in the event and lauding the Pro League Committee’s efforts in delivering a

Ahmed Al Attas wins Silver Boot Al Rumaithi‬ ‫receives the Best Professional Club Award

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 35 Al Khatib with Osama Al Amiri

Al Hamadi and Lima Humaid Fahker and Diop

36 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ACHIEVEMENTS

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 37 TECHNICAL INITIATIVES AND PROJECTS TO DEVELOP THE LEAGUE

The PLC works hard to develop its competitions in all Technical Development Initiatives: technical and organisational aspects. In 2016/17, we witnessed a number of initiatives, projects and tech- A number of positive technical initiatives are expect- nical development programmes aimed at advancing ed to take place starting next season, as a series of UAE football. coordination and technical meetings produced suggestions for initiatives to advance the PLC competi- Stable Season Calendar: tion and develop UAE football in line with the 2017- 2020 strategy. The approved 2016/17 calendar was stable throughout the season, with no changes made to the Arabian The development initiatives team comprising of PLC Gulf League except for those pre-scheduled in rela- technical committee members; Abdulhameed Al tion to clubs’ continental commitments. This had a Mestaka, Mansour Abdulla, Naser Abdulla and Taha positive impact on clubs and the competition overall.

38 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS TECHNICAL INITIATIVES

youth development managers and football experts. Following discussions to identify the optimum models to be implemented for the benefit of the league; subsequently, the following projects were approved:

1 - The Arabian Gulf Reserve League:

The competition is to be re-named to “The Reserve League” and age group adjusted to under 20.

2 - Foreign Players:

The current system of four foreign players including one Asian player is to be retained for next season. Starting the 2018/19, the system will change to four players of any nationality.

3 - Resident Players:

Resident players are to be added to the under-14 league in line with the applicable UAE FA regulations. This has been approved based on clubs’ request, whereas previously, resident players could only be registered starting at under-15 level through to the reserves. A resident player can be registered in the reserve league on the condition that he had held a UAE residence visa for at least 1 year prior to regis- tration and holds a valid Emirates ID.

This initiative aims to integrate residents in the UAE football community, increase fan attendance and pro- tect clubs’ investments in expat players in across age groups.

4 - Increasing Actual Playing Time:

In a study conducted by the initiatives work team to identify the reasons behind the low actual playing time in matches, the results showed the following reasons: 32% refereeing decisions, 31% lack of tech- Izzat, in addition to football experts; Dr. Musa Abbas, nical identity, 24% poor fitness levels, 11% intentional Captain Abdulrahman Al Hadda and Head of Techni- time wasting, 2% other. cal Department at the UAE Football Association Dr. Although the actual playing time has increased from Belhassen Malouche, all worked on several studies 28 minutes in 2011-12 season to 47 minutes in the with regards to foreign players, the Under 21 League, first half of 2016-17, the PLC presented a project to actual playing time per match, football academies, further increase actual playing time over three sea- expat players and yellow cards reset project as im- sons, starting with a target of 50 minutes, 55 minutes plemented in top global leagues. then reaching 60 minutes in the third season. The ini- These suggestions were presented in a Technical tiative was discussed during the workshop and it was Development Initiatives Workshop in January 2017, agreed that in order to apply the initiative, a number attended by coaches, club managers and CEOs, of educational workshops and lectures will be conducted to emphasis the concept of actual playing

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 39 time, its importance and the technical returns it has 6 - Private Football Academies: on clubs and players. It was agreed with clubs to form private academies 5 - Yellow and Red Cards Reset: where young players of any nationality can enrol. The academies will be optional for the 2017-18 season The preliminary regulatory list for this project has and will become mandatory starting the following been completed and will come into effect starting season. 2017-18 season. An independent authority will be formed by the UAE FA, consisting of 9 members (3 The PLC explained the reason behind this sugges- football experts, 3 refereeing experts and 3 legal ex- tion and the benefits to clubs in building loyalty with- perts) in addition to a chairman. in those affiliated with the academies and the club, integrating expats, who make up the majority of the The mechanism for complaints has been decided. population, into the UAE football system, promoting Clubs have 24 hours after the final whistle to lodge club brands and financial return on investment for the complaints. A committee of 3 members will be formed clubs. for each case within 36 hours of the match end and will look into the complaint within 24 hours of its for- mation.

THE ARABIAN FOREIGN RESIDENT GULF RESERVE PLAYERS PLAYERS LEAGUE

INCREASING YELLOW AND PRIVATE ACTUAL RED CARDS FOOTBALL PLAYING TIME RESET ACADEMIES

40 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS TECHNICAL INITIATIVES

E-VERIFICATION FOR PLAYERS’ CARDS The Pro League Committee adopted the implementation of electronic verification process for the access cards of players and staff involved in PLC organised competitions’ matches starting woth the 2017-18 season. The electronic system replaces the older system where players’ access cards are manually checked.

This step comes as part of the PLC’s 2017-2020 strategic plan to develop work and add value to the competitions to achieve success by using smart apps and utilise smart technologies in match organising and administration.

SEASON AWARDS…NEW CATEGORIES AND ONLINE VOTING

The PLC introduced new categories for ten Arabian Gulf League awards; The Arabian Gulf League Fantasy Manager of The Year, The Best Professional Club, The Golden Shoe Award for Arabian Gulf League top goalscorer, The Silver Shoe Award for the Under 21 League top goalscorer, The Leader Award for Coach of The Year, The Golden Boy Award for The Best Promising Player, The Golden Glove Award for Goalkeeper of The Year, The Golden Ball Award for Foreign Player of The Year, The Golden Ball Award for Emirati Player of The Year and The Best XI.

In line with the 2017-2020 Strategy, the PLC launched online voting for nominees in the voter-based categories. Fans voted in all vote-based categories compared to only one category in previous seasons.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 41 HAT-TRICK INITIATIVE LIGHTS UP COMPETITION BETWEEN AGL TOP GOALSCORERS

The PLC ignited competition amongst Arabian Gulf League attackers with a new initiative launched in Lima round 6 of the 2016/17 season. “The Goalscorer Initiative” honours a player who scores three goals “Hat-trick” or more in one match. The initiative stems from the PLC’s keenness to highlight the efforts of attacking players in scoring goals. Hat-trick scorers receive a matchball signed by the referee after the final whistle.

Two players received the award in round 6, Al Ahli’s Rodrigo Lima who scored four goals against Hatta, and Al Wahda’s Sebastian Tagliabue who netted five against Sharjah. After a blank round 7, Makhete Diop registered a hat-trick in Al Dhafra’s colours against his current team, Al Ahli in round 8. Foreign players continued to dominate the award in round 9 with Makhete Diop picked up his second signed match- Sharjah’s Gelmin Rivas scoring a hat-trick against ball, this time in Al Ahli colours in a round 14 match Bani Yas in round 9. against Emirates following a January transfer from Al Arabian Gulf League top goalscorer Ali Mabkhout Dhafra. Luvannor Henrique and Mourad Batna joined added his name to the list in round 10 with four goals the list in rounds 16 and 17 respectively. Al Shabab against Al Shabab in a match where Tomas de Vi- forward registered a hat-trick against Bani Yas while cente scored a hat-trick for Al Shabab. Al Wasl strik- Emirates’ Moroccan winger put three past Al Shabab. er Fabio de Lima secured the award for himself in Round 19 saw Mabkhout collect his second award of rounds 11 and 13 with hat-tricks against Dibba and the season with three goals against Emirates. Brazil- Hatta respectively. ian Caio Canedo became the second Al Wasl player to walk away with the matchball in round 20 with a hat-trick against Bani Yas.

Batna Al Dhafra’s Yassine Salhi scored four goals against Dibba in round 23 to complete the winners list before Ali Mabkhout made it three awards in the season with a hat-trick against Hatta in round 24.

42 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS TECHNICAL INITIATIVES

Mabkhout Lovanour Sebastián Tagliabué STARS AND GOLDEN SLEEVE PATCH ON CHAMPIONS’ JERSEYS Ahead of the 2016-17 season, the PLC offered clubs the opportunity to place decorating stars on the jerseys of clubs who have won five league titles and a golden star for each AFC Champions League win. Stars and sleeve patches highlighting titles will become mandatory as of 2017-18 season. The 2015/16 Arabi- an Gulf League Champions Al Ahli had worn golden sleeve patch throughout the past season as the reigning champions.

Champions Sleeve Patch The Golden Star on Al Ain Jersey

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 43 SECURITY AND SAFETY REGULATIONS COME INTO EFFECT STARTING NEXT SEASON

Safety and Security Workshop participants

The PLC worked to develop the security and safe- solid infrastructure and security and safety in disaster ty project in the Arabian Gulf League throughout the prevention. They highlighted the importance of de- 2016/17 season and drafted a regulatory list that veloping a complete system of guidance and security is set to be implemented starting next season. The management and the clear division of responsibilities committee briefed Arabian Gulf League clubs on the between police and the club for fans’ safety. The lec- objectives of this project which aims primarily to en- tures touched on the club licensing system and the hance fans attendance, provide a safe and attractive importance of the system’s regulations in applying environment for supporters, through workshops, lec- safety and security in stadiums, risk assessment and tures and training sessions for staff working in areas management and the roles of police, private security related to security and safety. The PLC also conduct- and stewards in securing matches and providing the ed several visits to Arabian Gulf League stadiums to necessary security and safety services. confirm clubs’ commitment to compliance with the required security and safety regulations. The visits The PLC organised an internal workshop for em- served to improve security and safety measures at ployees of the technical and operations departments clubs and provide club officials with the necessary about security and safety in stadiums, dedicated to skills and knowledge to conduct their responsibilities qualifying trainers for the private security companies, in the optimum way. under supervision of a specialised team from UAEFA in collaboration with the AFC. The workshop aimed The PLC’s efforts did not stop there, as the committee to increase the competency of private security com- crowned its efforts by organising an advanced work- panies’ staff to be fully trained on the safety, security shop on the subject in collaboration with the AFC’s and services during matches ahead of the implemen- League Development Program. The workshop was tation of the new security and safety regulations start- conducted by Mr. Shahin Rahmani, Stadium and Se- ing with the 2017/18 season. curity Manager at the AFC’s Competitions Division; Mr Steve Frosdik and Mr Gerald Westlake Toms, UEFA Consultant Gerald Westlake Toms oversaw both consultants at UEFA. the practical training for PLC representatives. He believes fans are now always looking for the best The workshop discussed the showcased the roles standards. Toms anticipates a positive impact and and duties of clubs in the field of safety and security, a more attractive environment for attendance in the highlighting case histories of incidents that happened stadiums. in stadiums and how they were handled, including major stadium disasters between 1902 and 2017. Lecturers at the workshop emphasised the role of

44 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS TECHNICAL INITIATIVES

CLUB LICENSING; EVALUATING PAST EXPERI- ENCES AND STUDYING AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

The Pro League Committee held a club licensing The workshop continued with a lecture from Maximil- workshop on Sunday the 30th of April at Dusit Thani ian von Portatius, UEFA Venue Director, about stadi- hotel Dubai. The workshop discussed upcoming up- um infrastructure standards, highlighting the impor- dates to the club licensing regulations for the next tance of infrastructure in clubs and its development licensing round (2018-19) and the challenges faced to meet the requirements to guarantee an attractive by the club licensing officials in the current round, environment for fans to have an enjoyable matchday highlighting case studies in an effort from the PLC experience. Portatius showcased examples for best to rectify negatives and overcome challenges in the global practices to attract fans with models from vari- next round. ous international stadiums.

The workshop showcased the timeframe of the cur- The workshop was concluded with the financial rent licensing round based on changes made by the standards framework, where the changes made to AFC lately, which require the clubs to proceed with the deadlines for submitting audited annuals finan- submitting the files required for the criteria based cial statements as well as the updates schedule for on the new schedule which ends in October 2017, the clubs’ obligations with regards to player transfers based on which the clubs that have successfully ob- and their obligation towards players and staff were tained licensing will be determined. These clubs will discussed. be eligible to participate in the 2018 AFC Champions League should they qualify.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 45 AND AN AFC VISIT TO CLUBS... A delegation of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) club licensing unit conducted a spot check of Arabi- an Gulf League clubs football companies licensed for participation in the 2016-17 Arabian Gulf League and the 2017 AFC Champions League. The visit aimed to ensure UAE licensing processes and procedures are strictly complied with in granting licences to clubs and to draft an improvements action plan where needed.

Visit to Al Ahli Club

visit to Al Jazira Club

46 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS JOIN THE LEAGUE OF PERFORMANCE

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2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 47 SPECIAL MEDIA TRAINING FOR THE PLAYERS

Sport media plays an essential in the profession- The idea of providing media training to the players al football matrix, be it in covering sporting events, came in accordance with the PLC’s efforts to qualify delivering news and information to fans across the workers in UAE football and improve their competen- globe through audio, visual, print and digital media. cy levels to match the increased levels of profession- And as dealing with media requires special skills, alisation, as well as educate them about their rights the PLC was keen to organise media training for the and responsibilities as partners in the professional players in collaboration with the AFC’s League De- football system through courses and workshops in velopment Program over three days in Abu Dhabi, the areas of administration, marketing, events, li- Dubai and Sharjah. censing and other areas which include the stage of training players. Media covers players’ entire careers; their skills, achievements, success and failure. It surveys their A total of 150 Emirati and foreign players attended opinions in many issues and connects them with the the media training across three days; the first day fans’ questions. In short, media is the link between conducted in Abu Dhabi saw participation from the players and everyone around them. The players’ emirate’s clubs (Al Jazira, Al Wahda, Al Dhafra, Bani skills on the pitch would not bring them closer to peo- Yas and Al Ain), while players from Dubai clubs (Al ple unless media was there to cover it and deliver to Nasr, Al Ahli, Al Shabab, Al Wasl and Hatta) attend- local and international sports fans. In the profession- ed the second day at Al Nasr Club with the support al world, there are essential parties that complement of Dubai Sports Council. The training concluded at one another to deliver success. Those include play- Sharjah Club with the attendance of players from ers, sponsors, partners, media, broadcasters, organ- Sharjah, Emirates & Kalba with the support of Shar- isers, fans and clubs. jah Sports Council.

48 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS DEVELOPMENT

The players media training featured multiple aspects of dealing with media. TV Presenter Lotfi Al Zobi explained the mechanisms of media and its role in delivering messages to audience. He demonstrated to the players the basics of dealing with media, the DOs and DON’Ts of interview in addition to a number of tips and instructions to help players rec- ognise the importance of media for their careers and enable them to represent their clubs and countries well in front of local and international media.

Media Consultant Sally Al Asaad explained to the players the importance of looks in TV interviews. She delivered tips, touching on areas such as proper appearance and manners, se- lection of clothes, colours and body language in addition to in- teraction with fans, TV crew, pho- tographers and others. Al Asaad emphasised on the importance

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 49 50 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS DEVELOPMENT

of manners and good conduct in dealing with the environment and the positive impact they have on the player’s career. The players were reminded not to flaunt expensive possessions such as luxury watches and mobile phones on TV. The lecture explained the importance of learning about the show a player is appearing in, the host and other guests. Al Asaad also presented on social media, explaining the negatives such as ease of spreading false rumours, pri- vacy issues, potential for creating tensions between players and teams through edited pictures and fake information. The players were advised on the positive use of social media, including when and why to post and were reminded to mull over before posting any- thing on social media.

Al Assad concluded by highlighting the security risks associated with social media such as blackmail, cy- bercrimes and hacking, explaining to the players the best ways to avoid falling victim to cybercrime gangs that usually target celebrities and athletes.

Throughout the training, the PLC was keen to highlight statistics and numbers for the Arabian Gulf League including match production, commercial value per match, production hours and other important information that demonstrate the importance of media appearances and conducting interviews for the player, club and sponsors of both the league and clubs.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 51 TRAINING COURSES FOR CLUBS STAFF

The Pro League Committee in collaboration with the professionalism in the minds of everyone working in UAE Football Association Academy has organised the football industry in the UAE, be it officials, players several specialised courses for staff at the UAE’s pro- or employees, subsequently raising the level of the fessional clubs throughout the 2016-2017 season. country’s domestic competitions and helping develop the club teams as well as the various age groups A total of 13 courses have been completed success- national teams. fully in line with the PLC’s aspirations; Two “Facilities and Events Management (Level C)” courses, two “Fa- cilities and Events Management (Level B)” course, one “Facilities and Events Management (Level A)” course, two “Sport Administration (Level C)” courses, three “Sport Administration (Level B)” courses, two “Sport Administration (Level A)” course in addition to one “Scouting and match analysis” course.

The courses have been organised as part of the PLC’s diverse plans to raise the competency of working staff at the professional clubs by organising various courses including theoretical lectures and practical applications to improve and raise employees’ competency and performance levels.

The PLC continuously aims to explore topics and projects that contribute to the development and success of all aspects of the game, reflecting positive- ly on the process of professionalization that started in the 2008-2009 season and continues to develop season by season, further entrenching concepts of

52 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS DEVELOPMENT

THE ROAD TO EXCELLENCE…VISITS TO BENEFIT FROM GLOBAL BEST PRACTICES PLC EXPLORE ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE EXPERIENCE

A delegation from the Pro League Committee con- The two sides agreed to strengthen relations and ducted a visit to the English Premier League between collaboration in areas of administrative cadre and 9th to the 13th of April 2017 to explore areas of cooper- players’ development through specialised workshops ation to achieve highest degrees of development and in addition to workshops in various areas which can progress in the world of football. The delegation was help develop the Arabian Gulf League. headed by Mr. Waleed Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the PLC accompanied by members of the various PLC Mr. Waleed Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the PLC com- departments. mented on the visit, “During the visit, the PLC delegation observed every detail about the experience of Upon their visit, the PLC conducted coordination England, the oldest school in football, and the Pre- meetings with marketing and TV broadcasting offi- mier League which is a global pioneer in marketing cials at the English Premier League who showcased and promotion and tops world leagues in terms of the English experience in management and organi- commercial revenue generation”. sation of league matches and marketing campaigns. The brand development project and its impact on “We consider this trip a complete success and we commercial performance was reviewed alongside aim to benefit from the best global practices to raise the Premier League competition regulations booklet. the level of Emirati football in technical, organisational, administrative and marketing aspects to subse- Premier League officials explained the competition’s quently grow the rate of success of professionalisa- sponsorship packages, reports about TV broadcast- tion which started in 2008-09 and delivered a great ing in terms of production, packages and broadcast success up to this season. At the PLC, we continu- rights. ously look to reach the highest levels of success and

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 53 development in the professional aspect in line with the committee’s 2017-2020 strategy aiming to be a pioneer in professional football”.

The trip, facilitated by Sir Dave Richards, the Arabian Gulf League ambassador, included a visit by the PLC delegation to Crystal Palace Football Club, one of the oldest clubs in the Premier League, established in 1905. The delegation explored the facilities at Sel- hurst Park Stadium and the available services and listened to a detailed presentation by the club CEO.

AND AN EARLIER VISIT TO THE J-LEAGUE In the same context, the PLC had organised a visit to the Japanese Professional Football League (J-League) in collaboration with the Japan Interna- tional Cooperation Centre (JICE) headed by Mr. Masako Kishimoto. The visit aimed to exchange football knowledge and experiences.

The delegation was headed by Mr. Waleed Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the PLC accompanied by representatives of the technical and competitions departments, club licensing, marketing and events.

The PLC delegation explored the Japanese experience in organisation and administration of competitions, club licensing, marketing and communcations, player development and other important aspects to develop the professional game. The delegation bene- fited from valuable information provided by J-League Chairman Mr. Mitsuru Murai, Vice-President Mr. Hi- romi Hara and the working team at the Japanese FA during productive meetings between the two parties.

The PLC delegation visited Omiya Ardija football club, one of the local clubs in Saitama Prefecture, which showcased the club’s active role in supporting professionalisation in Japan.

The J-League officials, in turn, praised the development of UAE football in recent years, especially following increased attention to professionalism and grassroots football.

54 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS DEVELOPMENT

CLUBS SPENDING REGULATION PROJECT… A NEW CHALLENGE TOWARDS IMPROVEMENT

Upon requests from professional clubs and being as- added, “We are a global company, working with var- signed the task of contracting a specialised company ious sport sectors across the world. In the past 20 to provide an extensive study on spending regulation, years, we worked with around 50 sporting establish- the PLC appointed Deloitte Global, a leading finan- ment and league in 40 countries to help leagues and cial services firm to analyse the current situation of clubs develop sporting competitions”. football companies and present international com- parisons to identify a mechanism that can help clubs Rawnsley went on to explain, “Our current project regulate their spending and link it with the UAE club with the PLC is not something new for us, we have licensing system. done the same before in multiple countries, so we are trying to offer our expertise in this area by working Working with Deloitte is part of a program to develop with the PLC and football companies to benefit from a club licensing system as to create a financial mech- the best practices. What is available somewhere else anism to help clubs control their expenses. This pro- may not necessarily be applicable here in the UAE, ject is aimed at helping clubs reach their objectives therefore, we will be working with the PLC to devel- and improve financially and commercially. Deloitte op a mechanism to be implemented in the future to is an international firm with focus on sports and an achieve financial sustainability for clubs, regulate in-depth knowledge of clubs across the globe. They spending, minimise reliance on government support, have worked with many sport organisations like FIFA assist clubs in increasing their revenues and balanc- and UEFA as well as domestic leagues in France, ing revenues with expenditure”. Spain and others. Regulations are to be set up and developed to give clubs a batter grasp of their profit- Mr. Waleed Al Hosani, Acting CEO of the PLC said ability targets. the committee is working to develop all aspects of its competitions; administrative, marketing and organi- Paul Rawnsley, Director at Deloitte, said, “We are sational, “Our directive in the PLC is to reach the top happy with the collaboration with the PLC in this club and to benefit from global best practices in line with development project. It is an indication of the PLC’s the 2017-2020 strategy and we will continue working keenness to develop its competitions”, Rawnsley to reach our objectives”.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 55 ENDLESS GIVING

A SPECIAL SEASON… IN THE YEAR OF GIVING

The 2016/17 season witnessed many national and with fans who have always supported & loved them. social events, demonstrating the importance of sports and football in particular in bringing society together The humanitarian side was heavily present in round and engraining the value of giving in supporters and 20 which carried the name “Round of Hope” to sup- followers of the Arabian Gulf League. port children with cancer in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SHEA), Dubai The Flag Day round was an occasion to express love Health Authority and the Ministry of Health’s Health to the nation and gratitude to the founding fathers of Education and Promotion Department in Ras Al Khai- the UAE and the unity of our nation. On the “Martyrs ma. A number of children with cancer took to the pitch Day Round”, we delivered a message of pride of the alongside players and participated in exhibition kick- martyrs of the country, as for “National Day Round”, offs as the crowed passionately engaged. it was rooted in our faith in the importance of the vir- tues of loyalty and unity between all followers of UAE Round 21, played on the 3rd and 4th of March, co- football”. incided with the International Women’s Day, and the PLC marked the occasion by honouring women in- The humanitarian and community initiative continued volved in the Arabian Gulf League in various capac- throughout the season in line with the announcement ities. by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan declaring 2017, the “Year of Giving” in the UAE. The The PLC dedicated round 22 to supporting Children PLC implemented a total of 11 initiatives that aimed with Autism in collcaboration with the Emirates Au- to enhance the relationship between sport and soci- tism Society. The players were invited to the pitch, ety and emphasise the important role it plays in peo- had their pictures taken with the players and took part ple’s lives by honouring various categories at match- in exhibition kick-offs. They also received valuable es, highlighting the issues surrounding some parts of gifts from the PLC. our society. The committee continued to pay attention to vari- The “Feekom Al Khair” initiative in round 15 was ded- ous walks of society, dedicating round 23 to honour- icated to honouring the working staff in Arabian Gulf ing people of determination who constantly attend League clubs as a gesture of appreciation to their matches to support their teams in the “Willpower roles as invisible soldiers in organisation and suc- Beats Disability” round. cess of the competition. Round 24 saw the PLC collaborate with the Emirates Round 17 carried the “Fair Support” motto, aiming Red Crescent in the “For Your Sake, Somalia” campaign to provide support to people of the brotherly to encourage sportsmanship among fans, promoting nation of Somalia who suffer from the consequenc- loyalty and positive support from the stands, away es of draught and famine. Revenues from the round from intolerance and unsporting behaviour. This initi- were donated to the campaign. ative helped build bridges of communication between clubs as a first step towards ending aggressive loy- Many orphan children had the opportunity to join alty and starting a aura of tolerance between fans of the pre-match ceremonies in round 25 as part of the all clubs. “Sprouts of Giving” organised by the PLC in collaboration with the Emirates Red Crescent and Sharjah Former players and club founders were honoured Social Empowerment Foundation throughout rounds 18 and 19 under the motto “Sym- bols of Giving”, as those who have placed the cor- The series of initiatives were concluded in the final nerstones in building UAE clubs and the players who round with the “Tackling Thalassemia” initiative or- brought glory to their clubs came to the forefront, ganised in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Health Ser- joining current players for pre-match ceremonies to recall their memoties and live memorable moments vices Company (SEHA) through Tawam Hospital in

56 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS Al Ain and Khalifa Hospital in Abu Dhabi, The Dubai In continuation of its community initiatives, the PLC Health Authority Thalassemia Centre and Fujairah honoured police officers ahead of the Arabian Gulf Hospital Thalassemia Centre. Cup final in recognition of their efforts and role in the successful organisation of football matches across the country.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 57 ENDLESS GIVING

INTERNATIONAL HAPPINESS DAY AT THE PLC OFFICES The Pro League Committee participated in the UAE’s celebrations of the International Happiness Day, cel- ebrated on the 20th of March every year.

The UAE featured high on the Global Happiness In- dex for the past three years; 2014, 2015 and 2016 thanks to the efforts and persistence of the nation’s wise leadership headed by His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE.

The PLC’s contribution to the International Happiness Day came through Acting CEO, Waleed Al Hosani, who distributed to the committee’s employees copies of “Reflections on Happiness and Positivity”, a book by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.

In a speech addressing the PLC’s staff, Al Hosani stressed that the committee is always keen on it em- ployee’s happiness and developing a positive, sus- tainable environment for innovation and creativity. He emphasised on the importance of learning from the lessons included in “Reflections on Happiness and Positivity” book, and making them a roadmap towards happiness, positivity, success and innovation. SUPPORTING YOUNG TALENT THROUGH “THE VICTORIOUS TV PROGRAM”

As part of its efforts to support young football talents, the Pro League Committee provided opportunities to contestants in season 3 of TV show “The Victorious” to gain match experience by arranging friendly matches against the Under-21 League sides of Emirates, Al Nasr, Al Ahli, Hatta and Al Jazira. The matches were attended by the show’s guest stars; Alessandro Del Piero, Steven Gerrard, Paul Scholes, Luis Figo, Carles Puyol and Ronaldinho.

58 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS EVENTS

ON NATIONAL SPORTS DAY “LIVE PRODUCTION” WIN AGL PARTNERS TOURNAMENT.

“LIVE Production” team were crowned champions of the “Arabian Gulf League Partners” tournament after beating the UAE Football Association team 4-1 in the final of the tournament organised by the Pro League Committee as part of the activities of the National Sports Day announced by His Highness Sheikh Moham- med bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and assigned the date of February 16th by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE Olympic Committee, under the slogan “UAE Unites Us”.

Part of the PLC and UAEFA day-long activities, eight teams took part in the tournament; Pro League Com- mittee, UAE Football Association, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, Al Naboodah Motors, Emirates Airlines, LIVE Production, Media and Match Officials.

A football skills competition was held on the side of the tournament, Ali Zaid Al Shehhi won the free-kicks competition while Ekrima Saleh won the ball control competition.

Children participating in the National Sports Day activities enjoyed a number of sporting events and competitions with prizes provided by the PLC to encourage the younger generations to play sports.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 59 CREATIVITY

ARABIAN GULF CUP FINAL…A FESTIVAL OF EVENTS AN IMPRESSIVE CELEBRATION SPONSORED BY ETISALAT

The Arabian Gulf Cup Final between Al Ahli and Al The Ceremony included several exciting acts with Shabab was preceded by a remarkable final ceremo- dancers putting on a performance to dazzle the au- ny sponsored by “Etisalat”, the official sponsor of the dience at Al Maktoum Stadium in a lovely carnival Pro League Committee. atmosphere.

60 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS CREATIVITY

DIOP NAMED FANS’ MAN OF THE MATCH

Al Ahli’s Senegalese striker Makhete Diop topped the polls on the “Arabian Gulf Cup Final Fans’ Man of The Match”, in the voting organised by the Pro League Committee on its various social media channels “@ AGLeague” in conjunction with the Arabian Gulf Cup Final between Al Ahli and Al Shabab that saw Al Ahli crowned champions for the third time in their history.

The PLC had announced the voting at kick-off and extended it overnight to allow the greatest number of fans to vote for their man of the match in the final. Makhete Diop was honoured by the PLC ahead of Al Ahli’s Arabian Gulf League round 22 match against Al Wasl.

PLC EVENTS STEAL THE SHOW BEFORE KICK-OFF

The Events organised by the Pro League Committee ahead of the Arabian Gulf Cup final were deemed a great success as they received special interest from the fans before the grand final between Al Ahli and Al Shabab kicked-off.

The events started at 16:00 and featured various exciting competitions where hundreds of fans and visitors took turns in trying to score goals against a robot-goalkeeper. Those present at the fanzone were treated to an intense competition between Al Ahli and Al Shabab fans.

In the PLC sponsors corner, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank presented a speed challenge competition, photogra- phy corner and a chance to enter the half-time raffle draw.

The PLC and “Yebala Shaabi” restaurant offered Tra- ditional Emirati cuisine in the fanzone as families and children engaged the celebrations and activities ac- companying this special event.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 61 CREATIVITY

PLC EXPERIMENTS WITH VIDEO ASSISTANT REFEREES

The Pro League Committee used the Arabian Gulf support were provided by the PLC in collaboration Cup final between Al Ahli and Al Shabab at Al Mak- with “LIVE HD Production”, the official broadcaster of toum Stadium on Saturday the 1st of April as an op- PLC competitions. portunity to experiment with Video Assistant Refer- ees (VAR) technology. The technology was tested The initiative comes as part of the PLC’s continuous throughout the 90 minutes without interfering on the efforts to develop all aspects of professional football match referee decisions. in the Arabian Gulf League. The PLC is committed to provide logistic support for the referees to success- The PLC had invited the UAE Football Association fully officiate PLC organised matches with minimal to attend the experiment through a specialised team impact on competing clubs by any refereeing deci- from the UAEFA’s refereeing department to oversee sions. the technical aspects. Logistics and technological

PLC Presents Valuable Prizes to Winning Fans

The Pro League Committee presented winning fans with valuable watches courtesy of Mohammed Ra- sool Khoory and sons at the end of week-long competitions aired on “Roohak Riadiya” show on “Noor Dubai” radio station and on the PLC’s social media channels “@AGLeague”, including Arabian Gulf Cup history quiz and the winners received their prizes at Al Maktoum Stadium where the Arabian Gulf Cup final between Al Ahli and Al Shabab took place.

The PLC aims to engage fans through its official social media channels, as it acknowledges the importance of fans engagement and their role in the success of its competitions.

62 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS ENTERTAINMENT & CHALLENGE

FANTASY ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE… SEASON-LONG COMPETITION

The Arabian Gulf League Fantasy game saw an in- Fantasy Manager of The Year with 1619.5 points, tense competition between participants on the game’s beating competition throughout the season. official website www.fantasy.agleague.ae throughout the season. The PLC had launched the Arabian Gulf League Fan- tasy game ahead of the 2013-14 season, where par- The PLC dedicated weekly prizes for winners of each ticipants can sign up on the official website www.fan- round, giving the winner the opportunity to attend a tasy.agleague.ae and start creating a team within the game for their favourite team, meet the players and allocated budget of AED100 million. The challenge is win a free club jersey. to collect the largest number of points. Players earn points based on their Arabian Gulf League match Saud Al Aleeli was named the Arabian Gulf League performances, in terms of scoring goals and assists.

Fantasy winners with their favorite stars

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 63 NUMBERS AND STATS

FOREIGN PLAYERS 81 foreign players from 34 nationalities played in the ninth edition of the Arabian Gulf League in 2016-17. Brazil dominated with 22 imports into the UAE, followed by South Korea and France with six players each while four Moroccans turned up for Arabian Gulf League clubs. Five nations had three representatives each in the league; The Netherlands, Australia, Argentina, Iraq and Romania, while Ghana, Colombia and Cote d’Ivoire had two each.

The past Arabian Gulf League saw one player from each of Peru, Jordan, Portugal, Senegal, Austria, Uz- bekistan, Italy, Burkina Faso, Belgium, Poland, Chile, Timor-Leste, Syria, Venezuela, Mali, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Japan, Oman, Lebanon and Nigeria.

This variety of nationalities gave a special flavour to the competition and provided Emirati players the technical advantage of playing alongside those with different playing styles.

64 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

KHASEIF & DIOP TOP AGL APPEARANCES CHARTS WITH FULL MARK

Al Jazira goalkeeper Ali Khaseif and Al Ahli striker Sharjah left-back Al Hassan Saleh. Dibba goalkeep- Makhete Diop topped the charts for most Arabian er Fahd Al Dhanhani and Emirates striker Sebas- Gulf League appearances after both players ap- tian Sacha both played 2243 minutes while Kalba’s peared in every single match, completing 90 min- Ali Saeed completed 2241 minutes followed by Al utes in all 26 rounds of the league with a total of Jazira’s Ali Mabkhout at 2236 minutes while a third 2340 minutes for each. Despite his transfer from Al Kalba player, Bakary Kone, rounds the top ten with Dhafra to Al Ahli in the winter transfer window, Diop 2234 minutes. retained his starting spot at the new club to join Khaseif as the only two players to play every minute Bani Yas’ Suhail Al Noobi played the highest num- for their teams. ber of Arabian Gulf League minutes for an under-21 player with 1904 first team minutes. Al Wahda’s Three players completed 25 full matches for their Ahmed Rashid played 1820 minutes while Al Wasl’s clubs, totalling 2250 minutes each; Kalba captain Ali Salmin completed 1515 minutes. Salam Shaker, Al Wasl forward Fabio de Lima and

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 65 NUMBERS AND STATS

HAMAD HASSAN TOPS UNDER-21 APPEARANCES CHARTS Dibba’s Hamad Hassan Al Hantoobi started 24 matches and came off the bench in one to complete a total of 2224 minutes as the highest number of minutes for a player in the Under-21 League. Sultan Abdul Hakeem played 2131 minutes for Al Nasr while Dibba’s Ahmed Al Mutawa played 2067, followed by Hatta’s Ali Al Kaabi at 2063 and Dibba’s Fahd Rashid with 2050 minutes. RIBEIRO AND AYED IN ARABIAN GULF CUP

Players from Arabian Gulf Cup Finalists Al Ahli and minutes, ahead of Al Shabab’s Manei Mohamed who Al Shabab dominated the list of top appearances featured in 636 minutes. Al Ahli’s Mohamed Jaber in the competition. Al Ahli playmaker Everton Ribei- and Al Shabab’s Luvannor Henrique played 630 min- ro and Al Shabab defender Mohamed Ayed played utes each. Al Wasl’s Ali Salmin got the highest play- all 8 matches for their respective sides, completing ing time amongst under-21 players at 597 minutes. 720 minutes. Al Ahli’s Makhete Diop follows with 686

66 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

1301 GOALS ACROSS FOUR COMPETITIONS

The Pro League Committee organised four compe- Arabian Gulf League matches saw the majority of titions last season; Arabian Gulf League, The Un- own goals with 18. The competition recorded 484 der-21 League, Arabian Gulf Cup and Arabian Gulf goals from open play and 69 penalties. In the Un- Super Cup. The four competitions saw 1301 goals, der-21 League, 488 goals came from open play, 82 including 1098 from open play and 168 from penalty from penalties and 12 were own goals. Arabian Gulf kicks. Teams suffered the agony of own goals on 35 Cup saw 125 open play goals, 16 penalties and four occasions. own goals. The single-match Arabian Gulf Super Cup witness a collection of goals with a penalty, a goal from open play and an own goal.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 67 NUMBERS AND STATS

AL JAZIRA THE HIGHEST SCORING, HATTA THE LOWEST

Al Jazira registered the highest number of goals scored throughout the 2016/17 season with a total of 147 goals. 72 in the Arabian Gulf League, 58 in the Under-21, 16 in the Arabian Gulf Cup and one in the Arabian Gulf Super Cup. Al Wahda came second, just eight goals behind their Abu Dhabi rivals. The Ma- roons scored 75 goals in their Under-21 League winning campaign, 54 goals in the Arabian Gulf League and ten in the Arabian Gulf Cup.

At the other end, Hatta found the net just 45 times as the lowest scoring team in the season. 24 of their goals came in the Arabian Gulf League, 20 in the Un- der-21 League and only one goal in the Arabian Gulf Cup.

10 GOALS IN ONE MATCH

Arabian Gulf League round 10 match between Al Shabab and Al Jazira was the highest scoring game of the season. The game at Al Shabab’s Maktoum bin Rashid Stadium saw the visitors record a 7-3 win over their hosts. Al Wasl registered the biggest win of the season with an 8-0 home thumping of Dibba in round 11. Three other games saw 8 goals scored in each. Al Wahda defeated Sharjah 7-1 at Sharjah Stadium in round 6, they also beat Bani Yas 6-2 in round 21 at Al Nahyan Stadium. While Bani Yas and Emirates played out a 4-4 draw in round 25 at Bani Yas Stadium.

The biggest win in the Under-21 League was recorded in the final round when Al Jazira beat Al Dhafra 12-0. Al Dhafra were also at the receiving end of two 1-8 defeats at the hands of Dibba and Al Ain.

Md10 Match Between Al Shabab & Al Jazira

68 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

GOALSCORERS

Al Jazira striker Ali Mabkhout broke the record for most number of goals scored in a single Arabian Gulf League season, a record previously held by Ghana- ian striker Gyan Asamoah. Mabkhout found the back of the net 33 times to become the first Emirati top goalscorer in the professional era. Mabkhout’s stroll to the top goalscorer title was smooth as he finished the season 8 goals ahead of his nearest chasers, Al Wasl’s Fabio de Lima.

Al Shabab striker Luvannor Henrique scored ten goals to lead the Arabian Gulf Cup goalscoring charts, while Al Jazira’s Ahmed Al Hashemi was the top goalscorer in the Under-21 League with 22 goals, three goals more than Dibba’s Ahmed Rashid.

FASTEST GOALS

Hatta’s Maher Jassim scored the fastest goal in the Arabian Gulf League, one minute into his side’s match against Emirates at Hamdan bin Rashid Sta- dium in round 5. Three players scored in the second minute of games, Emirates’ Sebastian Sacha against Al Shabab in round 17, Dibba’s Yassine Al Bakhit against Al Dhafra in round 10 and Caio Canedo for Al Wasl against Dibba in round 11.

Ahmed Al Hashemi scored the fastest goal in the Un- der-21 League in the first minute of his side’s game against Bani Yas in round 18, while Adrian Mierze- jewski scored the fastest goal in the Arabian Gulf Cup for Sharjah against Emirates in the third minute.

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 69 NUMBERS AND STATS

GOAL TIMES The first 15 minutes of matches were the lowest To determine goal-scoring periods, matches were di- scoring periods with 153 goals scored; 61 in the Ara- vided into three periods of 15 minutes for each half, bian Gulf League, 78 in the Under-21 League and 14 in addition to added time. in the Arabian Gulf Cup. Statistics show that the final 15 minutes of matches 26 goals were scored in added time of the first half saw the highest goalscoring rate with 235 goals; 111 and 82 in added time of second half across the four of them in the Arabian Gulf League, 97 in the Un- competitions. der-21 League, 26 in the Arabian Gulf Cup and one in the Arabian Gulf Super Cup.

ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE

70 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

ARABIAN GULF CUP

ARABIAN GULF SUPER CUP

UNDER-21 LEAGUE

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 71 24 MANAGERS LED ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE TEAMS Five teams retained their coaches through the sea- Ivan Hasek managed the team for 13 games and son as 24 managers took charge of the 14 Arabian so did each of Sharjah’s two bosses Giorgos Don- Gulf League teams last season. Al Jazira (Henk ten is and Jose Peseiro. Klaus-Dieter Pagels (Emirates) Cate), Al Ahli (Cosmin Olaroiu), Al Wasl (Rodolfo Ar- and Jose Gomes (Bani Yas) lasted 12 matches each ruabarrena), Al Wahda (Javier Aguirre) and Al Dhafra while Kalba’s Fabio Viviani and Dibba’s Paulo Sergio (Mohamed Quaid) all benefitted from stability on the spent 11 matches in charge of their respective clubs. dugout as they finished in top positions, having kept Zoran Mamic (Al Ain), Miroslav Djukic (Al Shabab) their coaches for all 26 Arabian Gulf League rounds. and Abdulwahab Abdulqadir (Bani Yas) coached their teams in 10 matches. Pablo Repetto stayed at Bani Nine teams made changes to their technical teams Yas for four matches while Waleed Obaid coached during the season (Kalba, Emirates, Sharjah, Al Hatta for two. Shabab, Al Ain, Al Nasr, Bani Yas, Hatta and Dibba). Managers spent varying amounts of time at the helm The season saw a plethora of coaching schools, with of their clubs; Hatta played 24 matches under Gjoki- coaches from Serbia, Italy, Czech Republic, Germa- ca Hadzievski, Dan Petrescu managed Al Nasr in 21 ny, Romania, The Netherlands, Greece, Portugal, games while Goran Tufegdzic (Kalba), Fred Rutten Spain, Syria, Croatia, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, (Al Shabab), Zlatko Dalic (Al Ain) and Paulo Comelli Macedonia, Brazil, Iraq and the UAE. (Dibba) all coached for 15 matches each. Emirates’

72 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 73 1718 YELLOW CARDS AND 118 RED CARDS IN PLC COMPETITIONS.

Referees brandished a total of 1836 colour- Kalba recorded the least number of red cards with ed cards during the Pro League Committee’s four just two. Al Wasl players were sent-off four times competitions last season, split between 1718 yel- while Sharjah saw five red cards and Al Dhafra six. low cards and 118 red cards. In the yellow cards charts, Al Ahli picked-up The lion’s share of cards came in the Arabian Gulf 67 cards yellow cards as the most team to receive League with 783 yellow cards and 46 red cards. yellow cards in the Arabian Gulf League while Al The Under-21 League saw 759 yellow cards and Wahda collected 69 yellow cards in the Under-21 58 red. Arabian Gulf Cup had 174 yellow cards and League to top the charts. Al Shabab, meanwhile, re- 12 red cards while the yellow card was brandished ceived 25 Arabian Gulf Cup yellow cards. twice in the Arabian Gulf Super Cup and there was an equal number of red cards. Looking at the red cards count for each competition, Dibba and Al Wahda have collected the highest num- Al Shabab recorded the highest number of yel- ber of red cards in the Arabian Gulf League with six low cards with 139 across the four competitions, each. Emirates and Hatta saw their players sent-off that is one card more than Al Wahda’s 138 and three seven times in the Under-21 League while Al Wah- more than Hatta. Dibba and Al Dhafra had joined da saw three red cards in the Arabian Gulf Cup. The least number of yellow cards at 101. Arabian Gulf Super Cup witnessed two bookings for Al Ahli players while Al Jazira and Al Ahli both saw Al Wahda players were shown the red card 15 times red once in the competition. while Bani Yas saw red 13 times. There were 12 red cards for Hatta, 11 for Emirates and 10 for Al Ahli.

74 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

Yellow Cards

Red Cards

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 75 PASSION

NUMBERS AND STATS

PITCH JUDGES ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE REFEREES 17 referees officiated 182 Arabian Gulf League Duo Omar Mohamed Al Ali and Yahya Ali matches in 2016/17; FIFA international Al Mulla were appointed to officiate 10 referee Mohamed Abdullah Hassan refereed league matches each, while Abullah Al Ajel 22 matches, followed by Sultan Al Marzooqi and Fahad Al Kassar ran eight games each. at 21 matches, Ammar Al Junaibi and Yaqoub Sultan Al Hammadi refereed six matches, Al Hammadi officiated 17 matches each while Khalid Abdullah Najim and Essa Khalifa Al Hamad Ali Al Ali refereed 16, one more than Hajri officiated three matches. Finally, Zayed Adel Al Naqbi. Ahmed Salem Al Aleeli ran the Dhaifallah Al Awlaqi and Mohammed Obaid proceedings in 13 games while Ahmed Essa Khadim ran one game each. refereed 11 matches. Arabian Gulf Cup Referees

78 I 2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS NUMBERS AND STATS

ARABIAN GULF LEAGUE CUP REFEREES

The 45 Arabian Gulf Cup matches were Ahmed Essa, Sultan Abdulrazzaq Al Marzouqi, refereed by 15 referees. Hamad Ali Al Ali, Adel Omar Mohammed Al Ali and Mohammed Al Naqbi and Abdullah Al Ajel took charge of Abdullah Hassan officiated two games each five matches each, Yahya Al Mulla refereed and finally Ammar Al Junaibi refereed one four while Sultan Mohammed Al Hammadi, Arabian Gulf Cup match. Essa Khalifa Al Hajri, Ahmed Salim Al Aleeli, Fahad Al Kassar and Yaqoob Al Hammadi each ran three matches. Khalid Abdullah Najim,

Arabian Gulf League Referees Number of Matches

2016-17 A SEASON OF GIVING AND ACHIEVEMENTS I 79 NUMBERS AND STATS

UNDER-21 LEAGUE REFEREES In the Under-21 League, 34 referees oversaw Ali Al Shabeebi each ran six games, followed 182 matches; ten of which were officiated by Hassan Al Baloushi, Yasser Khalfan Al by Ahmed Hassan Al Hammadi. Khalid Al Zaabi at five games each, Abdullah Rashid Al Mulla, Ali Al Zarooni and Yasser Al Ansari Naqbi, Essa Khalifa Al Hajri at four, Ahmed refereed nine matches each. Ahmed Saleh, Mesabeh Mubarak, Abdulghaffar Bashir and Bader Bahrouz, Hassan Ali Al Baloushi, Zayed Mohammed Obaid Khadem at three games Dhaifallah Al Awlaqi, Abdullah Mohammed each. Five referees officiated two matches Rashid took charge of eight matches each, each; Ahmed Essa, Fahad Bader Al Hosani, while Ahmed Saeed Al Naqbi, Ahmed Abdullah Yassin Ahmed Al Mansoori, Yahya Ali Al Al Ghais, Saqr Hamdan Al Zaabi, Salah Eldin Mulla and Youssef Hassan Al Shamali. Each of Youssef Al Hammadi, Nasser Ali Al Ali refereed Ahmed Salim Al Aleeli, Saif Ahmed Al Musabi seven matches. Khalid Abdullah Najim, Sultan and Mohammed Abdullah Al Harmoodi took Mohammed Al Hammadi, Abdullah Naji, charge of one Arabian Gulf Cup game last Mohammed Salem Al Ali and Mohammed season. U21 Referees

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