Confusion surrounded the cove-ted 67-year-old’s status after Dibba’s announcement about a contract renewal on June 10 was trumped by his new side’s declaration last week that he had in fact joined them for 2016/17.
This situation was cleared up Tuesday, with Emirates posting a picture on Instagram of the German signing a deal as it was made clear no formal commitment had been made to the promoted club who he had expertly guided to Arabian Gulf League safety last term.
“I offer my thanks to His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saqr Al Qasimi, chairman of the club, and the fellow board members for the trust they have placed in me to lead the Falcons in the next phase,” said Bucker, who will be tasked with ensuring they do better than finishing one spot and one place outside the relegation zone like they did under predecessor Paulo Comelli.
“I am very happy to work in Emirates Club. Here I found that the officials work in the keen interests of the club and they worked in the spirit of the same family since the start of negotiations with me.
“This encouraged me to accept the offer, after finding the ingredients for success that will help me in my mission.”
There has been no fresh reaction from Dibba about the update, although it is reported they are considering legal action.
Emirates struggled badly in Comelli’s second full season in charge following his December 2013 arrival, an eight-game losing streak during the winter representing the nadir. Middle East veteran Bucker was much more successful with unfancied new boys Dibba, keeping them firmly away from danger until a late-season slump saw them come into the final day with a minimal risk of the drop.
The ex-Lebanon supremo is aware his immediate task in his new post is to reconstruct a squad which has already lost forward Rodrigo Pimpao back to Botafogo and seven-goal striker Alassane Diallo to relegated Al Shaab, while ex-Australia midfielder Brett Holman has not been retained.
He said: “I have been consulting with the board about the team’s needs for domestic and foreign players. A variety of names were presented for consideration and we are awaiting decisions on how to proceed during the next two days.”
Bucker must now foster the same team spirit which saw him through at Dibba. The start of pre-season is set for July 16, with a European training camp to begin on July 25.
He said: “I always stress the importance of teamwork, this is what the fans of the Falcons should know.
“They are aware the only way to success is the co-operation of all members of the board, technical staff, administration, players and the fans.”