Brazilian Douglas to fill Emenike’s boots at Al Ain
Striker makes move from Japanese side Tokushima as Nigerian returns to Turkey
Defending champions and league leaders Al Ain have bolstered their forward line by signing the Brazilian Dyanfres Douglas Chagas Matos, who has switched from Tokushima Vortis of Japan.
Douglas will take the place left by Emmanuel Emenike, whose season-long loan deal from Fenerbahce has been curtailed with the player heading back to the Turkish club. Douglas said he had opportunities to sign for other sides but is convinced Al Ain are the best option for him.
“I would like to thank Al Ain and to everyone who put in their effort to get this offer done. I had a few offers but I decided to pick this club. I managed to get all possible information about the club and the players and I’m confident of adding value to the club,” said Douglas, who during his recent stint at Sanfrecce Hiroshima on-loan from Tokushima Vortis scored 21 goals from 31 outings in the J-League.
“I hope that together we can add one more title to the club at the end of this season. I’m aware that it is a competitive league but I’m well prepared and I’m sure with the help of the entire team we can achieve Al Ain’s objectives,” added the 28-year-old.
Ever since Emenike was sent on loan by Fenerbahce, after a traumatic spell in Turkey, he has been on the resurgence, finding the net nine times in 15 matches.
But it is understood Fenerbahce asked Al Ain for a staggering €15 million (Dh59.73 million) after the previous loan amount of €2.5 million (Dh9.95 million) in order to sign Emenike. Instead, Al Ain have turned their attention to Douglas, who has been signed on a two-anda-half year deal for €3.9 million (Dh15.6 million).
Coach Zlatko Dalic, speaking about his new signing said: “I welcome our new player and I hope he will very soon join the team and fit into my scheme of things and adapt to my style. We have kept a track of him and he has scored around 20 goals in a season. I’m sure he is a right choice from our side.”
Dalic also thanked Emenike and Ryan Babel for their services. “I wish Emenike and Babel all the best for their next club.”