2025-11-11 09:00
by
nlpkak
When I first started analyzing Ajman Football Club’s remarkable turnaround over the past two seasons, I couldn’t help but notice how much of their success comes down to a handful of standout individuals. As someone who’s followed UAE football for years, I’ve seen clubs rise and fall, but what’s happening at Ajman feels different—more intentional, more sustainable. It’s not just luck; it’s leadership, strategy, and pure talent working in sync. And if there’s one quote that captures the spirit behind this transformation, it’s the promise made by Gutierrez to carry on the legacy established by Gonzalez. That sense of continuity, of building on past efforts rather than tearing them down, is at the heart of Ajman’s current momentum. Let’s dive into the five key figures who’ve turned this club into one of the most exciting teams in the UAE Pro League.
First up, you have to talk about Head Coach Juan Gomez. I’ve always believed that a coach’s influence extends far beyond tactics, and Gomez embodies that. Appointed in early 2022, he didn’t just tweak the formation; he instilled a philosophy. Under his guidance, the team shifted to a high-pressing, possession-based style that’s both thrilling to watch and brutally effective. Stats don’t lie—Ajman’s average possession jumped from 48% to nearly 58% in his first full season, and they’ve scored 64 goals in 34 matches, a 30% increase from the previous year. But what really stands out to me is how he’s developed younger players. He trusts them, gives them minutes, and it shows on the pitch. I remember watching their comeback win against Sharjah last season; it wasn’t just a victory—it was a statement. Gomez’s ability to blend experienced pros with hungry youngsters is, in my opinion, one of the biggest reasons they’ve climbed from mid-table obscurity to genuine title contenders.
Then there’s Ali Al-Mansoori, the club’s captain and defensive anchor. At 29, he’s in his prime, and his leadership is palpable. I’ve spoken to a few insiders at the club, and they all say the same thing: Al-Mansoori sets the standard. He’s not the flashiest player, but his reading of the game is exceptional. Last season, he made over 120 clearances and maintained a 92% tackle success rate, numbers that any top defender would envy. Off the field, he’s the glue that holds the squad together. I recall one match where Ajman conceded early, and instead of frustration, it was Al-Mansoori rallying the troops, urging calm. That kind of presence is invaluable, especially in high-pressure moments. For me, he represents the club’s resilience—a quality they’ve honed under his stewardship.
Of course, no discussion of Ajman’s success is complete without mentioning their star striker, Brazilian import Felipe Costa. Signed for a reported €3.5 million, he’s been worth every penny. In 28 appearances, he’s netted 22 goals and provided 9 assists. But it’s not just the numbers; it’s how he scores. Costa has this uncanny ability to find space where there seems to be none. I still can’t forget his hat-trick against Al Ain—a masterclass in positioning and finishing. Some critics said he’d struggle to adapt to the UAE league, but he’s silenced them all. Personally, I think his partnership with the midfield, especially with creative players like Hassan Al-Zaabi, has been a game-changer. They’ve developed an almost telepathic understanding, and it’s made Ajman’s attack one of the most feared in the region.
Speaking of creativity, let’s talk about Omar Al-Zaabi, the young Emirati playmaker. At just 22, he’s already being dubbed the future of UAE football, and rightly so. His vision and passing range are extraordinary; he’s notched 14 assists this season alone. What I love about Al-Zaabi is his fearlessness. He takes risks, tries through balls others wouldn’t, and it often pays off. I had the chance to watch him in a training session last year, and his work ethic stood out—he’s always the last to leave the pitch. That dedication is rubbing off on his teammates, too. In a way, he symbolizes the new generation at Ajman: talented, ambitious, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. If he keeps this up, I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in Europe sooner rather than later.
Lastly, we can’t overlook the role of Sporting Director Carlos Gutierrez, who took over from his predecessor, Gonzalez. This is where that legacy quote really hits home. Gonzalez laid the groundwork with a focus on youth development and strategic signings, and Gutierrez has not only continued that but amplified it. He’s been instrumental in securing key transfers, like Costa, and fostering a culture of excellence behind the scenes. From what I’ve heard, he’s also big on data analytics, using it to fine-tune recruitment and performance metrics. For instance, under his watch, the club’s scouting network expanded to cover over 15 countries, leading to the discovery of gems like Costa. In my view, this seamless transition from Gonzalez to Gutierrez is a textbook example of how to build long-term success. It’s not about reinventing the wheel; it’s about refining it, and Gutierrez has done that brilliantly.
As I reflect on these five individuals, it’s clear that Ajman’s rise isn’t a fluke. It’s a story of synergy—between coach and players, veterans and newcomers, legacy and innovation. I’ve seen teams with bigger budgets falter because they lacked this cohesion. Here, though, each key player brings something unique, yet they all align with that overarching vision Gutierrez pledged to uphold. Looking ahead, I’m optimistic about their chances. With the UAE Pro League heating up, Ajman has the tools to not just compete but dominate. If they can keep this core intact and continue building on their strengths, I wouldn’t bet against them lifting silverware soon. For fans and neutrals alike, it’s a thrilling time to follow this club—one that, in my opinion, is setting a new standard for what’s possible in Emirati football.
