Following the news that La Liga and the AGL have agreed a partnership deal, we look at the stars plying their trade in the UAE with great success.
– Off The Bar: Pirlo’s tears, Jack Warner's paper shredder
– INSIDE STORY: Agreement with La Liga a big boost for UAE football
Omar Abdulrahman
Club: Al Ain
Age: 23
Country: UAE
One of Asia’s finest, the attacking midfielder is a joy to behold when free from injury. Omar extended his contract with Al Ain earlier this season, meaning a European adventure will have to wait.
Mirko Vucinic
Club: Al Jazira
Age: 31
Country: Montenegro
Striker excelled after Juventus move, top scoring in the 2014/15 AGL with 25 goals. The Montenegran forward will pose an even greater threat next season having become accustomed to life in the UAE.
Ali Mabkhout
Club: Al Jazira
Age: 24
Country: UAE
The 2015 Asian Cup leading marksman is just as deadly on home soil. A real star for the future, Mabkhout is ambitious and hopes to land a move to Europe. Mabkhout has long been linked with a move to La Liga.
Asamoah Gyan
Club: Al Ain
Age: 29
Country: Ghana
Africa’s all-time leading goalscorer in World Cups has won five trophies with the Boss. One of the star men of the Arabian Gulf League champions, Gyan has scored an incredible 95 goals in 83 games for Al Ain in four seasons at the club.
Everton Ribeiro
Club: Al Ahli
Age: 26
Country: Brazil
Has grown since February arrival. Playmaker is part of Brazil’s Copa America squad. It took Ribeiro time to settle in at Al Ahli but his performances in recent weeks have inspired his team to their first appearance in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals.
Hugo Viana
Club: Al Wasl
Age: 32
Country: Portugal
The classy midfielder has shown his timeless passing ability at both Al Ahli and Al Wasl. Viana came to UAE when his contract with Braga expired and has not looked back.
Madjid Bougherra
Club: Fujairah
Age: 32
Country: Algeria
Was a steadying influence at the back as Fujairah cemented their top-flight status. Prior to arriving in the UAE, Bougherra managed to win two league titles in Qatar with Lekhwiya.
Joan Verdu
Club: Bani Yas
Age: 32
Country: Spain
Spanish schemer provided a steady source of assists and goals for Bani Yas in 2014/15. With 10 goals in 24 appearances, Verdu has become one of the most vital players at the club.
Brett Holman
Club: Emirates Club
Age: 31
Country: Australia
Lifted three cups with Al Nasr and is now set to provide vital experience for Emirates Club. Holman leaves Nasr having captained the side to the cup double this season.
Ismail Al Hammadi
Club: Al Ahli
Age: 26
Country: UAE
Excelled all term despite the Red Knights’ struggles, providing killer speed, skill and showcasing an eye for goal. Won the league's Rookie of the Year award in 2009 and has this season began to fulfil his immense potential.