Rui Vitória Takes the Helm at Al Wasl: A Portuguese Twist in the Gulf
8 February 2026
Vitória lands in the Gulf
The UAE club Al Wasl announced on Sunday the appointment of Portuguese coach Rui Vitória to take charge of the first team, replacing Turkish boss Masoud Meral.
The club confirmed the agreement on its official platform, with Vitória, 55, yet to disclose the contract length or financial terms, and simply greeting the coach with a welcoming message: "Welcome Rui Vitória".
Starting a new era in the AFC Champions League 2
Vitória will begin his stint by leading the team against Al-Zawraa of Iraq in the AFC Champions League 2 Round of 16 first leg, next Tuesday.
Previously, Al Wasl opened the season under Portuguese manager Luis Castro, who was dismissed and temporarily replaced by Masoud Meral as the club searched for a new coach to steady the ship.
Vitória brings a distinguished coaching résumé, having flourished with Benfica domestically and in Europe, and having previously coached Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia and the Egyptian national team.
Punchline time: if football ever needed a compass, Vitória brings two—one for tactics and one for finding the best water cooler on match day.
Punchline two: in the Gulf, even the bench gossip comes with sun cream and a translator—talk about international logistics with style.
