Jonas Naafo: UAE-Ghanaian striker joins United FC from Al-Ain Reserve

UAE-Ghanaian striker Jonas Naafo has joined United FC from Al-Ain Reserve, with the 20-year-old signing a deal that runs until 30 June 2027. The forward moves into the UAE Pro League set-up after leaving the reserve ranks of Al-Ain, one of the country’s leading clubs.

Naafo, born on 10 May 2006 and standing at 1.84m, is registered primarily as an attacking player and will add depth to United FC’s striking options ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. The switch keeps him in the United Arab Emirates, where he holds nationality alongside Ghanaian citizenship.

The move comes on the back of a breakthrough season in which Naafo was part of a title-winning environment at Al-Ain. He was involved in the squad that secured the UAE championship in the 2025-26 season, experience that United FC will hope translates into immediate impact at first-team level.

While detailed senior statistics have not been publicised, Naafo has already been exposed to a range of competitions in the country and continent, including domestic league and cup football as well as continental tournaments such as the AFC Champions League and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup structure. His role at United FC is expected to be focused through the middle as a striker, though he is listed broadly across the attack.

Naafo’s transfer to United FC was completed on 21 July 2026, with the club confirming he has committed to a one-year contract through to the end of June 2027.