Emirati club Al Ain revealed on Thursday the official joining of Brazilian defender Marcos Maia to its first football team. In a video clip published by the club on its official account on platform 'X', Maia stated: 'I have a great feeling. I am very happy and excited and I want to thank all the staff members who sought to sign me and complete this deal. I chose Al Ain because it is a big and historic team and the biggest club in the Emirates. I feel very happy and I spoke with some of my friends who play here, and their impressions were positive, and this made me more confident in making the decision to join the team.' The Brazilian defender continued: 'My ambition is to win matches and clinch the league title. I want to thank everyone for the warm welcome and support, and I assure you that I will give all my spirit and passion for this club.' In the same context, the club refrained from disclosing the financial amounts related to the deal or contract details. The 20-year-old player previously began his sporting career at the Resende Academy in his country before joining Athletico Paranaense in 2022 and progressing through its various age groups. Al Ain is preparing to play its first preparatory match on Friday against Moroccan team Amal Deroua, as part of its training camp currently held in Morocco.

This move comes within the framework of sports clubs' efforts to strengthen their ranks and attract promising talents to support their journey in local and continental competitions.

This deal highlights the clubs' strategy of attracting young elements to bolster their defensive lines. This professional experience is expected to help refine the Brazilian player's skills given the size and ambitions of Al Ain Club. Following the player's performance in the preparatory camp and friendly matches remains an initial indicator of his harmony with the team's technical system. The biggest challenge for the technical management will be to provide the appropriate environment to achieve the club's competitive goals during the football season.