The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have also warned the United Arab Emirates Football Association, while Sharjah will have to pay compensation to Group B opponents Piroozi of Iran, Al Shabab of Saudi Arabia and Al Gharafa of Qatar.

After losing their first four games of the group stage, which ended their hopes of reaching the knockout round, Sharjah opted to withdraw in order to focus on their battle against relegation in the domestic league.

Sharjah eventually avoided the drop by four points and will kick off the new season in September.

The AFC executive committee has also recommended the amendment of the competition regulations to discourage other teams from withdrawing in the future.