Former Japan national team head coach Javier Aguirre has emerged as a strong contender to take over as UAE boss.
UAE are currently in the market for a new manager after Edgardo Bauza shockingly moved to Saudi Arabia on last Thursday despite only having three competitive matches with The White.
Al Ahli’s Cosmin Olariu was thought to be the favourite for the role but has reportedly turned down an offer and according to the Sport360, ex-Al Wahda boss Aguirre is now their new top target.
Aguirre, 58, cut his international managerial teeth twice as Mexico national team boss in 2001 and 2009. He spent most of his career in Spain with Osasuna, Atletico Madrid, Real Zaragoza and Espanyol before moving to Asia in 2014.
UAE, who will host the 2019 AFC Asian Cup, failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup after only finishing fourth in the Group B of Asia’s third round qualification campaign.