Joan Verdu is a cultured, skilful midfielder whose arrival will add more than a touch of class to Bani Yas’ midfield.
Since opting to leave Espanyol and join Real Betis on a free transfer 12 months ago, he has become an unfortunate victim of circumstance.
After making a good start to the season, he found himself powerless to prevent the injury-plagued Seville-based club sliding horribly towards a disastrous relegation which has now led to his departure from Spain.
The move was supposed to work out so differently.
Betis had finished the previous campaign in the top half with a reputation for playing attacking, attractive football, and Verdu was supposed to be the man to make them even stronger.
Instead, a combination of injuries, exhaustion through competing in the Europa League and plain bad luck left them doomed.
Verdu was always bound to leave Betis this summer because he’s far too good to be playing in the Spanish second division.
At the age of 31, however, he was also too expensive for the liking of many top flight clubs – hence his availability for Bani Yas.
His strengths are a superb first touch, a great range of passing and a powerful long-range strike.
And if he can stay fit, he will be a great addition to the UAE football scene.