UAE football clubs support ban, fine on football players after behavioural violation

Two major UAE football clubs released their statements after their players were suspended, excluded from the national team and fined on June 8 by the country's football association.

The UAE Football Association on Sunday suspended two players — Sharjah Club player Khalid Al Dhanhani and Shabab Al Ahli Club player Sultan Adel — and fined them both Dh500,000 each.

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As per the statement, the two players were penalised due to the violations committed by them inside the national team camp on June 7.

Both the clubs issued official statements, supporting the temporary ban imposed on the players, which bars them from playing five matches in local competitions.

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Sharjah Club said it had "closely reviewed" the statement issued by the authority regarding the suspension of Khalid Al-Zanahani, his exclusion from the national team squad, and the imposition of a fine.

The club stated that it had "initiated the necessary disciplinary procedures against the player in accordance with the club’s internal regulations, reflecting its commitment to the principles of discipline and responsibility".

"The club regrets the occurrence of such conduct during the national team training camp and emphasises that representing the country is a great honour that requires all players to maintain professional behavior and full discipline.

"Furthermore, the club reiterates its continued support for the national teams and affirms its dedication to preparing its players to be role models both on and off the field, in a manner that reflects the honorable image of Emirati football," it concluded.

Shabab Al Ahli Club, on the other hand, "strongly" rejected and condemned the behaviour of its player Sultan Adel and said it had taken the necessary disciplinary action against him in accordance with its internal regulations.

Calling players "ambassadors of the nation", the club emphasised that it was their responsibility to reflect a respectable image through their adherence to values, discipline, and sportsmanship.

It also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting national teams and upholding the name of the UAE in regional and international arenas.

Previous incidents

The UAE maintains strict laws when it comes to hosting sporting games and other events.

In May, Dubai-based football clubs Al Wasl and Shabab Al Ahli were fined a total of Dh150,000 following events that unfolded during the Adnoc Pro League match.

The fans of both the clubs insulted each other, and threw liquid bottles onto the pitch and at the opposing team's fans. Al Wasl fans also a smoke bomb.

Earlier this year, two football fans were arrested for using distress signal flares during matches.

Laraib Anwer

Laraib Anwer is a Digital Journalist who loves the thrill of breaking headlines almost as much as she does unapologetically using GenZ slang. She dreams of a world free of animal cruelty and hopes to tell community stories that make a difference.

laraib@khaleejtimes.com