Gonzalez, 33, was only drafted in from Thai Premier League-challengers Suphanburi F.C. on July 4. But Arabic daily newspaper Emaratalyoum has reported the Tigers board has decided to rescind their one-season deal with the Spanish attacking midfielder without a ball being kicked competitively.

The same scenario played out before their previous top-flight stint in 2014/15. Jordan forward Tha’er Bawab was released after an underwhelming pre-season, although such drastic action had a negligible effect on the team as they limped home last with just 10 points.

The decision leaves coach Moura Okbi with one spot open in their non-Emirati quartet. Veteran Iraq centre-back Salam Shaker, lethal Burkina Faso striker Yahia Kebe and prolific Romanian forward Mihai Costea will remain with last season’s First Division League runners-up.

Kalba are attempting to arrest a pattern which has seen them bounce between the top two divisions every season since a fine 2009/10 campaign won them promotion to the AGL for the first time in the professional era.

They have brought in midfielders Mohammed Al Khdeim and Hamad Al Hosani from Ajman in the domestic market, as well as securing the loan of U-21 League top scorer Shaheen Surour from Al Jazira.