Omar Abdulrahman, often called the ‘Arabian Messi,’ is a celebrated attacking midfielder for both Al Ain FC and the UAE national team. He has won the Asian Player of the Year and gained notoriety for his skills and viral moments. Despite talents that could shine in Europe, he has faced challenges in moving abroad due to work permit issues and club decisions. His success has made him a role model for Arab players seeking opportunities beyond their homeland.
Omar Abdulrahman is widely regarded as an exceptional talent in Asian football, often likened to Lionel Messi. The 26-year-old attacking midfielder plays for Al Ain FC in the UAE and represents the Emirati national team. He has garnered more than a million Instagram followers and has been featured on the cover of Pro Evolution Soccer alongside Neymar, marking his influence within the sport.
In 2016, he won the Asian Player of the Year award and has consistently been shortlisted for this honor over the past three seasons. Notable figures like Daniel Sturridge and Luis Suarez acknowledged his skills during the 2012 London Olympics, emphasizing his potential to compete at a higher level.
Omar Abdulrahman’s popularity in Asia is fueled by his viral moments and unique style, including his distinctive hairstyle. He gained further recognition when he performed a Panenka penalty against Barcelona in a friendly match, echoing his memorable performance during the 2015 Asian Cup. His proficiency in dribbling and creativity on the pitch have made him a standout player in Asian football.
Abdulrahman has received praise from prominent coaches, such as Javier Aguirre and Zlatko Dalic, highlighting his talent and capability to compete at the highest levels globally. His journey began in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he developed his skills on the streets, eventually catching the attention of Al Ain FC.
After joining Al Ain in 2009, Abdulrahman accumulated several accolades, including three league titles and a spot in the Asian Champions League final. Despite his remarkable talents, he has yet to secure a permanent move to a European club due to work permit issues and Al Ain’s reluctance to let him go. Notably, he turned down loan offers from Benfica and Nice, opting to remain with his current club.
Prominent figures in football, like Xavi, have urged for more opportunities for Arab players to compete internationally, positioning Abdulrahman as a potential trailblazer for future generations of Emirati athletes. As the landscape of football evolves, Abdulrahman remains a significant figure who could pave the way for greater Arab representation in Europe.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
