Al Ain Club of the United Arab Emirates has successfully facilitated the naturalization of Nigerian goalkeeper Hassan Sani, who is now officially registered as an Emirati player.
The club confirmed the development following the completion of legal procedures, making Sani eligible to represent Al Ain as a local player under UAE football regulations.
The move is part of the club’s strategy to bolster its squad by taking advantage of naturalization policies permitted in the country.
Sani, who has been a key figure for Al Ain, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. “I am honoured to become an Emirati player and grateful to Al Ain Club for their trust and support.
This is a significant moment in my career, and I am excited to contribute to the team’s success,” he said.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper joined Al Ain in 2023 and has since established himself as one of the most reliable figures in the squad.
His consistent performances played a vital role in the club’s recent campaigns, prompting the management to pursue his naturalization.
The naturalization process aligns with the UAE’s broader initiative to enhance its football competitiveness by integrating talented foreign players into the national system.
This policy allows clubs to strengthen their squads while also expanding the pool of players eligible for future national team selection.
Al Ain officials praised Sani’s dedication and professionalism, citing him as an example of the club’s commitment to developing talent. “Hassan Sani has shown remarkable dedication since joining our team. His naturalization reflects both his quality and the positive impact he has made at the club,” a club spokesperson stated.
With his new status, Sani will no longer occupy a foreign player slot in the team’s squad, offering Al Ain greater flexibility in their recruitment strategies.
The goalkeeper’s naturalization is expected to inspire other foreign players in the UAE league, as the country continues to explore ways to enhance its domestic football talent pool and international competitiveness.
