Seven ADNOC League clubs retain their coaches for the new season

June 16, 2025 / 7:00 PM

Sharjah 24: Seven clubs in the ADNOC Professional League have opted to retain their head coaches in preparation for the 2024-2025 season, maintaining technical stability ahead of the new campaign. These clubs include Shabab Al Ahli, Al Ain, Ajman, Al Bataeh, Kalba, Dibba, and Al Jazira.

Continued confidence in successful coaches

Shabab Al Ahli continues under the leadership of Portuguese coach Paulo Sousa, who led the team to an impressive quadruple last season. Al Ain remains under Serbian coach Vladimir Ivic, while Ajman retains Serbian coach Goran Tufejdzic. Dibba renewed its confidence in Portuguese coach Bruno Pereira, who was instrumental in the team’s return to the Pro League. Al Bataeh stays with Iranian coach Farhad Majidi. Ittihad Kalba is continuing with Serbian coach Vuk Ražnović, and Al Jazira moves forward with Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta.

Coaching changes for other clubs

Several clubs have opted for fresh leadership. Al Wasl appointed Portuguese coach Luis Castro, while Al Nasr hired Serbian coach Slavisa Jokanović. Khorfakkan brought in Emirati coach Hassan Al Abdouli, and Al Dhafra signed Montenegrin coach Zeljko Petrovic. Bani Yas announced the appointment of Bulgarian coach Ivaylo Petev Bogdanov.

Pending announcements

Sharjah has not yet officially named a replacement for Romanian coach Cosmin Olaroiu, who left to coach the national team. Serbian coach Milos, formerly of Al Wasl, is a top contender. Al Wahda has also yet to announce a new head coach following the departure of Slovenian Darko Milanić.