Zlatko Dalic is certain his new side can rise to the challenge against Al Ittihad and hand him a perfect start to life as Al Ain coach.

The former Al Hilal and Al Faisaly boss returns to Saudi Arabia having only taken over first-team duties at the Garden City club on Saturday, following the departure of Quique Sanchez Flores.

Dalic had been just three days into a role with the club’s academy at that point and has had only four training sessions to get to know his new squad.

However, the Croat knows the danger posed by Ittihad well from his time in the Saudi Premier League.

“I was assigned as the head coach four days before the match,” Dalic said. “However, I trust the players to win the match.

“Time is important for such matches but I accepted the challenge to have my first match with the team in the ACL and this is my job and I must do it well and wish success to my team.”

Dalic faces a selection dilemma ahead of kick-off in Makkah with playmaker Omar Abdulrahman back in training following a groin injury.

The UAE star has not played since January 24 and his new coach is wary about rushing him back too soon.

“I wish he is back soon because I need him, but also I should be careful not to be in hurry,” the Croat added.