The DP World Tour reaches the midway point of its Asian Swing when it returns to action with the ISPS HANDA Championship in Japan
Al Ain have made a major statement of intent by completing the signing of Amer Abdulrahman Alhammadi and Caio Lucas Fernandes.
The players, unveiled at a Press conference in Khalifa bin Zayed Stadium on Saturday night, have inked a three-year contract.
By bringing in UAE midfielder Amer Abdulrahman from Baniyas, Al Ain have bolstered their elite midfield as they aim for AFC Champions League glory.
Amer Abdulrahman hopes to live up to the expectations of the club and fans.
"Continental Championship is the next biggest challenge. I hope to deliver the goods," Amer said.
"I am ready to take on the challenge awaiting me at this club. It's an honour for any player to wear the Al Ain shirt. I am aware there is no limit to the aspirations at this club."
With this move, Amer has ended his 10-year association with Baniyas and he didn't forget to thank the members for their support. Amer had in the past rejected many offers from local and international clubs.
The 27-year-old has 43 international caps and share good vibes with playmaker Omar Abdulrahman and Mohamed Abdulrahman.
Amer happens to be the second player signed by Al Ain from Baniyas. Earlier, Al Ain had roped in 26-year-old winger Fawaz Awana. That was the first signing made by Al Ain this season. Amer is expected to replace Brazilian Fellipe Bastos in the midfield.
The Garden City club were relentlessly pursuing Japanese J1 League player Caio, who was voted 2014 J-League Young Player of the Year.
Caio said he was impressed by the seriousness shown by the club during negotiations. "Al Ain showing such an interest was a big motivation for me joining one of the best clubs in the Asia."
The Brazilian is well aware of his immediate goals - the AFC Champions League.
Caio vows to perform to his best and help Al Ain win the title.
"I will strive to help Al Ain win the local tournaments too. The club management had told me the immediate aim is AFC Champions League glory," the 22-year-old said.
The Kashima Antlers left winger has scored six goals in 18 matches this season and helped others score with three assists.
The Brazilian went to a Japanese high school and was open to the idea of being naturalised and playing for the Samurai Blue.
Caio is eagerly looking forward to playing at the iconic Hazza bin Zayed Stadium.
"My friends have told it is one of the best stadiums in the world," he added.
The signings, 'welcomed' by coach Zlatko Dalic, proves that the Croatian is going full throttle to make amends for losing the Arabian Gulf League top spot to Al Ahli.
Al Ain Sports chairman Al Hajeri said the signings are in a bid to strengthen the squad and realise the club's aspirations.
The DP World Tour reaches the midway point of its Asian Swing when it returns to action with the ISPS HANDA Championship in Japan
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