Douglas Costa joins Al Ittifaq in UAE on two‑year deal

Brazilian forward Douglas Costa, 35, has signed a two‑year contract with Al Ittifaq of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, running until June 2028. The former Juventus, Bayern Munich and Grêmio player leaves Italy’s Serie D side Chievo Verona, where he made 13 appearances, scoring once and providing an assist after a brief stint following his time at Chievo.

The transfer is linked to club owner Pietro Laterza, who also controls Al Ittifaq, and reunites Costa with fellow Italians already at the Emirati side, including Mario Balotelli. Administrative hurdles that prevented the immediate registration of non‑EU players in the UAE led to Costa being “parked” in Italy before the move could be finalised.