A football coach given a respectful exit is rare. In this light, outgoing Al Wahda coach Javier Aguirre was given a befitting farewell on Sunday. A poster with Aguirre, the President's Cup and Al Wahda logo formed the settings for the Press conference called by club president Ahmed Al Rumaithi.

Emotions ran high as Aguirre made his way into the hall and media persons took turns to pose for a picture with the Mexican even before a word was exchanged.

Aguirre said the two seasons were among the toughest of his career.

"This League isn't easy to work in. In the last two years, just two coaches - me and (Al Ahli coach) Cosmin Olaroiu have stayed on. More than 25 coaches were sacked. It is not easy to work. There's lot of pressure on coaches."

Talking about his achievements in the last two seasons, he said: "It's just three teams - Al Jazira, Al Ahli and us who won trophies. Al Jazira got the League and President's Cup, Al Ahli the League and we got the President's Cup. Just three teams shared the titles and I also have to say that we don't invest like they do. They have big budget," Aguirre said.

And then he spoke about an asset closest to his heart - young players.

"I'm proud that this year we have 25 players in our team and 14 play with the second team. There is big work done by the academy. Also, nine players are in the UAE Olympic team. Al Wahda's investment in the academy is a good decision," Aguirre said.

He said Al Wahda got a strong foundation for future heroics.

"We have a very young first team today. We have a very good base for next four to five years. They will have the Super Cup and the Champions League. These will be a good challenge for the people in the dressing room," said Aguirre.

He said over the years, the young players have learned how to be professionals.

"Two years ago these people - Ahmad Rashid, Abdul Basit, Mohammad Akbari and Khalil Ibrahim - would come late, sometimes won't rest and eat properly. Today they know they have to gym, eat and rest. Now they are professionals," said Aguirre.

He pointed out the management needs to take care of the second team coach Al Hay Juma.

"It's good idea to continue working with this coach."

Aguirre said to have had 'honest' conversations with the club president and thanked Al Rumaithi for all support. "We had a brief chat and we two decided to part ways. This team needs fresh ideas. Al Wahda will always be in my heart."

The Mexican said he had offers in hand but will rest for some time to recharge.

"I have lot of friends in Europe and the US. And China is an emerging market," Aguirre said. "My wife is my boss."

Ahmad Al Rumaithi said the decision wasn't taken by a single person.

"Lots of people were involved in the decision. This isn't an easy decision but a right one."

Al Rumaithi said there was no confirmation on Romanian Laurentiu Reghecampf as the new coach. "We have contacted some coaches but we didn't finalisd anyone."

Source: Khaleej Times