The Hawks travelled to Germany Tuesday, where they will continue preparations until returning to the UAE on August 15. This follows a four-game spell in the 53-year-old’s native Netherlands.

There they beat Roda JC’s youth team 3-2, drew 2-2 with De Treffers, defeated Silvolde 1-0 and thrashed SV Real-Lunet 8-0.

“We will continue with the best level in the second phase of the camp in Germany,” Rutten told Shabab’s website.

“We have a great group of players. They have great enthusiasm, but they need a lot of work until we get them to the required level for the start of the season.”

Shabab sacked Caio Junior after last term’s fifth-placed finish. Their 2015/16 commitments begin on September 3 when they host Dibba Al Fujairah in the Arabian Gulf Cup.

Meanwhile, mid-table Ligue 1 outfit Nantes reportedly hope to take advantage of Ishak Belfodil’s unhappiness at Bani Yas.

An interview was published on Monday by French sports daily L’Equipe in which the 24-year-old declared he wanted to play in a “major league” once again.

The same publication stated Nantes are exploring whether they can buy the Algeria forward.