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AG Super Cup: Al Ain star Rayan Yaslam embraces challenge of filling Omar Abdulrahman gap

Matt Monaghan

22:48 21/08/2018

Al Ain’s next generation are ready to pick up the mantle left behind by mentor Omar Abdulrahman – beginning with Saturday’s Arabian Gulf Super Cup against bitter rivals Al Wahda.

This is the message from Rayan Yaslam. From 2017/18’s drive to a club-first double of the Arabian Gulf League and President’s Cup, the 23-year-old emerged as Amoory’s heir apparent for club and country.

With the 2016 AFC Player of the Year set to spend this season at Saudi Arabia giants Al Hilal, it is up to the likes of Yaslam to take up their idol’s creative responsibilities.

“Omar is a huge technical advantage for any team, he can make the difference on his own,” said the Boss youth product, whose tally of four goals and four assists in the top flight last term represents career-best figures.

“We will surely miss him on and off the pitch, but Al Ain are capable of achieving our ambitions.

“We would like to thank Omar for everything he gave the club and for supporting all youngsters during his time here, and wish him all the best in his new adventure in Saudi Arabia.”

Al Ain and AGL runners-up Wahda’s scrap for glory is set to resumed at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium this weekend.

Veteran UAE centre-back Mohanad Salem should be able to take part after he belatedly agreed a one-year contract extension.

Salem 33, saw his deal lapse after the end of 2017/18. But he was registered as a Boss player with the UAE Football Association on Tuesday.

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