Coach Abel Braga (Brazil) Last title (total) None 2009/10 record 15-6-1 Key additions Bare, forward (Al Ahli), Matias Emilio Delgado, forward (Besiktas) Departed Ricardo Oliveira, forward (Sao Paulo), Rafael Sobis, forward (Internacional) Summary Braga has done a fine job to finish second twice, and a first league title is not beyond his reach. Bare, the Brazilian, and the Argentine Delgado, who is expected to arrive tonight from Turkey, should lead the attack. Ibrahim Diaky, the central midfielder, is a live wire and will be supported by the experienced Subait Khater and Abdulsalam Jumaa. Rashid Abdulrahman will have to marshal a shaky defence.
Coach Helio dos Anjos (Brazil) Last title (total) 1986 (3) 2009/10 record 7-2-13 Key additions Leonardo Silva, forward (Sau Paulo), Helal Saeed Obaid, defender (Al Ain). Departed Anouar Diba, forward (Morocco); Ali Boussaboun, forward (Morocco). Summary The UAE's oldest club (1945) had one of their worst seasons, narrowly escaping relegation. Unhappy fans prompted management to dismiss Frank Pagelsdorf, the coach, and hire Dos Anjos towards the end of the season. The new campaign represents more of a chance to rebuild then to be contenders for silverware. They have strengthened, but a good start will be vital for them to keep their confidence up.
Coach Paulo Bonamigo (Brazil) Last title (total) 2008 (3) 2009/10 record 8-4-10 Key additions Julio Cesar, forward (Brazil), Lamine Diarra, forward (FK Partizan), Mahmoud Qassim (Al Ahli), Hamdan Qassim (Al Ahli), Carlos Renato (Brazil). Departed Pedro (Brazil) Summary Bonamigo took charge midway through a crisis season and took Shabab to the President's Cup final, which they lost to Emirates. He has made some significant signings to revive their hopes. It will be a new attacking pair up front, Ceasar and Diarra. Suroor Salem can link-up with the pair to provide the platform.