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14 teams for next UAE Pro-League

The UAEFA board of directors confirmed the earlier reports that the number of pro-league clubs has been raised from 12 to 14 with immediate effect.

“From next season, the Etisalat pro-League will see 14 clubs competing for the trophy,” Yousuf Al Serkal, president of the UAE Football Association told newsmen at the association’s offices in Dubai during a brief news conference on Sunday.

“Four teams will be eligible to take part in the playoff to decide the two teams which will be promoted to the Pro-League clubs. This decision has been taken to ensure justice between the two teams which were supposed to be relegated to the lower level (Sharjah and Emirates) and the third and fourth place finishers in the First Division National League (Al Shaab and Al Dhafra),” he said.

Al Serkal reiterated that Sharjah and Emirates have been virtually relegated to the First Division and they are no longer a pro-league clubs and this point should be made clear in the minds and hearts of the people.

“The move was not taken to serve particular club or team. “We were motivated by only one objective, that’s to serve the country’s football. We are here to do what should be done to promote the game and raise the standard of performance. We are not talking about helping any particular club to maintain its first division status.

“Everything is decided in the light of the interests of the game. We would prefer to see our players play more games and gain enough experience and readiness for the continental and international challenges,” he added.

Regarding the format of the playoff, Al Serkal noted that the competitions committee will meet later in the month to determine the format and schedule of the playoff.

“Nothing has been decided so far. And whether it will take the shape of a league format or otherwise, this would be decided later,” he confirmed.

In the meantime, the First Division National League clubs A & B has been merged into one competition from next season.

“All the clubs of the first division A & B clubs will compete in a unified tournament under the name of the First Division National League,” he said.

However, and contrary to earlier expectations that Sharjah and Emirates should automatically maintain their respective pro-league status, Al Serkal said they are governed by the principles of equality and justice.

Sharjah and Emirates clubs’ managements declined to comment hinting that they have accepted the decision and they will prepare their teams for the challenge ahead.