Ambitious new boy Keno is determined to write his name into Al Jazira’s history like “the Brazil legend Ricardo Oliveira and the African legend George Weah” once action gets under way for 2019/20.
Keno, 29, inked a one-season loan deal late on Sunday night from Pyramids FC to mark an exciting start to the Pride of Abu Dhabi’s foreign recruitment. The forward netted eight times in 32 top-flight run-outs after an Egypt-record $10 million arrival from Palmeiras during June 2018.
“I am excited for my new journey with Al Jazira and I am delighted to join this great reputable club which was the home to some of the football world’s biggest names like the Brazil legend Ricardo Oliveira and the African legend George Weah,” said Keno, who makes the switch after snubbing Arabian Gulf League runners-up Shabab Al Ahli Dubai Club
“I am fully aware of Al Jazira’s attacking play style and their commitment towards giving their fans a memorable match experience.
“Their playing style suits me and will help bring out my best performances and help the team to achieve the goals set for the new season.”
Jazira’s desire to improve on last term’s disappointing fifth-placed finish has seen the unheralded Streppel – who counts Willem II, Heerenveen and Anorthosis Famagusta among his former employers – replace fellow Dutchman Damien Hertog at the helm. UAE midfielder Sultan Al Ghaferi was landed on a free transfer once his deal at neighbours Al Wahda expired.
They have, however, suffered the blow of witnessing the highly rated Mohamed Jamal head to Al Ain.
Fresh addition Keno will join his Jazira team-mates for the first time during this month’s summer training camp in the Netherlands.
He brings plenty of experience having previously played for cubs such as Mexico’s Atlas and Botafogo.
HE Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, chairman of Al Jazira, said: “I would like to express my sincere thanks to Al Jazira higher management whose support was instrumental for the deal to come through. Their ongoing support to the first team and their continued efforts to ensure the success of Al Jazira is highly valuable.”
Keno’s compatriot Leonardo and ex-Arsenal attacker Nacer Barazite have already departed Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium. Cameroon midfielder Sebastien Siani and Ghana winger Ernest Asante’s continuations in the non-Emirati quartet are unclear.
Streppel said: “Keno will be a wonderful addition to the Al Jazira squad. He’s talented, has a good eye for goal and has good experience under his belt.
“I think he’s a player who will excite our fans.”
