Egypt FA Backs Infantino, Dalić Begins UAE Project And Saudi Pro League Returns

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From Egypt’s FIFA politics to a major UAE national team project and the return of Saudi football, there’s plenty happening across regional sport. Egypt’s football federation has joined five other Arab federations in backing Gianni Infantino, Zlatko Dalić has begun his four-year project with the UAE national team, and the 2026/27 Saudi Pro League season is officially underway.

Egypt FA Backs Infantino Ahead Of FIFA Election

What Is It About
Egypt’s football federation has joined five other Arab federations in backing Gianni Infantino as he faces growing opposition ahead of next year’s FIFA presidential election. Egypt joined Morocco, Qatar, Lebanon, Sudan and Mauritania in reaffirming confidence in the FIFA president’s leadership.

Why It Matters
The support comes despite Egypt’s anger over refereeing decisions during the 2026 World Cup, especially in the match against Argentina. The Egyptian FA had publicly raised concerns with FIFA, but has now joined the Arab federations backing Infantino.

What’s Next
Infantino has led FIFA since 2016 and is expected to seek re-election in March 2027. The statement comes as UEFA, the AFC and CONCACAF push back against him following controversy over FIFA’s proposed World Cup private investment plan.

Zlatko Dalić Begins Four-Year UAE Project

What Is It About
Zlatko Dalić is back in UAE football, this time as head coach of the national team on a four-year project running through 2030. The former Croatia head coach returns almost a decade after his spell with Al Ain.

Why It Matters
Dalić arrives with major international experience after leading Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, third place at the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 Nations League final. The UAE FA says he was chosen for his experience building national teams and managing major tournaments.

What’s Next
His immediate targets include Gulf Cup 27 and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, but the bigger ambition is building a UAE side capable of pushing for World Cup qualification. Dalić wants to combine young talent with experienced players while focusing on organisation, discipline and team identity.

Saudi Pro League Returns For 2026/27 Season

What Is It About
The Saudi Pro League 2026/27 season is officially underway, with the opening round already delivering wins for Al Ahli, Al Qadsiah and Al Hazem. Al Ahli began the Marino Pušić era with a 1-0 win over newly promoted Diriyah.

Why It Matters
Al Qadsiah also made an early statement with a 3-1 win over Al Shabab, strengthening their case as genuine title contenders. Meanwhile, defending champions Al Nassr are still preparing for their opener, with Cristiano Ronaldo back in training.

What’s Next
Al Hilal and Al Ittihad are also set to begin their campaigns as the new season gathers pace. With the summer transfer window still open, squads can continue changing even after the league has kicked off.

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