Posted On Saturday, 27th July 2013
Asamoah Gyan
Al Ain striker Asamoah Gyan can’t wait for life under new coach Jorge Fossati, believing the his experience in winning the AFC Champions League will help push the club forward.
Fossati, 60, was appointed on Thursdayafter a near month-long search that saw the defending champions begin their pre-season preparations without a coach.
The Uruguayan, who replaces Al Ahli-bound Cosmin Olaroiu, has managed in the Gulf region before and led Qatari side Al Sadd to AFC Champions League glory in 2011.
Gyan spoke of his frustration at having to wait for the club to sign a new boss, but believes they have picked the right man.
“At long last a coach has arrived,” said Gyan. “We have been waiting for about a week or so but finally we have a coach, an experienced coach.
“He won the AFC Champions League two years ago, I think that experience could help the club. We’ve won two league titles in a row, so getting a coach like him, everything will be fine.
“It was difficult for the team [to train without a coach] although training has been fine so far. Everyone is giving their best to get back to form.
“Coaches are one of the most important people in a team. We are really happy with the decision to bring a coach like Fossati,” said the Ghana captain.
Al Ain are now a week into pre-season training with Fossati having just a month to prepare for the Boss’ first game of the season, against Al Ahli in the Super Cup.
Olaroiu’s departure for rivals Ahli sent shock waves through the Arabian Gulf League, surprising Gyan and his teammates.
Although his former coach will now be trying to mastermind Al Ain’s downfall, the prolific striker has no hard feelings towards the Romanian.
Gyan said: “I was a bit surprised, he did what he could, he did very well to bring two league titles in a row to the team.”