Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai celebrates two rising football stars.
Dubai: Nike MENA has announced siblings from Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai (RGSGD) as its newest Nike MENA Football Athletes.
Zayn Ali Salman and his sister Zahra have been selected to represent the brand as rising talents in regional football.
With promising careers ahead, the school is supporting their ambitions through customised academic schedules, specialised coaching and ongoing encouragement.
Nine-year-old Zayn was scouted by Arsenal F.C. at the age of four and has since continued to pursue his passion for football in Dubai.
At just eight years old, Zayn signed a three-year deal with Nike, becoming the youngest athlete to join the brand’s family — a remarkable achievement at such a young age.
In Dubai, Zayn represents Cognita Enrich ME, inspiring fellow young athletes to follow their passion for football, while Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai supports him with a tailored academic timetable, helping him balance education and sporting goals.
Speaking about his love for the game, Zayn said: “Football is everything to me. I want to keep working hard every day so that one day I can play professionally. My school helps me stay focused on both football and learning, which means a lot.”
Zayn’s older sister, Zahra, has also established herself as a talented footballer.
Alongside her brother, Zahra has recently been signed by Nike as a MENA Football Athlete. She has also been called up to the U15 Iraqi national team and the UAE national team, giving her opportunities on the international stage.
Zahra is one of the youngest players in her age group and trains with the Under-15 boys’ team at Cognita Enrich ME.
While in London, Zahra was scouted by Chelsea F.C.. She was recently named Cognita Enrich ME’s Sports Personality of the Year and appointed a Royal Grammar School Guildford Dubai Girls’ Sports Ambassador, recognising her leadership and dedication to inspiring other young girls to play football.
“I love proving that girls can play just as well as boys,” Zahra said.
“Playing for the UAE is such an honour, and I want to keep improving. My school’s support helps me manage my training, travel and studies, which really makes a difference.”
