Dubai: Romanian coach Cosmin Olaroiu says he has no regrets over his controversial switch from Al Ain to Al Ahli after his new club clinched the Arabian Gulf League last week.
Olaroiu created a stir when he left back-to-back league champions Al Ain to join second-placed Al Ahli last summer. But he now says the move was justified after winning his third successive UAE league title with the Red Knights.
Al Ahli have also reached both the UAE League Cup and President’s Cup finals, putting them on course for a historic quadruple, having also won the Super Cup earlier this season. They could make it an unprecedented five titles if they continue their form in the Asian Champions League.
Reflecting on the move, Olaroiu said he was right to jump ship. “In life you have to make and take decisions,” he said.
“Winning my third league title shows that I took the right decision. My life and that of my family is more important when making a choice for the future.
“When I see the potential to put everything in balance — maybe someone else doesn’t agree, but in the end I think everyone will see it was a good decision.”
Olaroiu’s comments are likely to rub salt in the wounds of Al Ain, who, following the Romanian’s departure, have slumped to seventh in the Arabian Gulf League. The Garden City club’s only chance of avenging Olaroiu this season will come in the President’s Cup final against Al Ahli on May 18.
