Italy's Jonathan Milan prevailed in a tight sprint to claim Thursday's wind-battered UAE Tour fourth stage, while Tadej Pogacar retained the leader's red jersey.

Milan added to his opening day success, edging out Belgian duo Tim Merlier and Jasper Philipsen at the line.

Pogacar Holds Firm In Overall Lead

Pogacar, who won Wednesday's third stage, remained in command of the general classification after the 181km ride from Fujairah Qidfa Beach to Umm al Quwain.

Lidl-Trek rider Milan will be hoping to add another win in Friday's sprinter-friendly 160km fifth stage.

Pogacar said he is "up for the action if I'm in the front". He added that his team "did super amazing job," staying in the front when it was important, and that they "had some fun". He acknowledged, "it was hard, but a good day out there".

Regarding finishing in a smaller group, Pogacar noted, "it's always much better to finish in smaller group especially when it's a sprint like this...So I'm always happier with this smaller group in the final". He also described the last 5 kilometers with a big group in the headwind as "pretty hectic".

Building Momentum For The Classics

The 24-year-old has established himself as one of the top sprinters and will be one to watch in next month's Milan-San Remo one-day classic.

"It's true that this type of race is very important for the classics," Milan noted. "It was windy today, so in terms of position and managing the nerves, it will help to gain experience," he added.

About race preparation, Pogacar stated, "it's a good race for preparation". He elaborated, "a lot of people always think that coming here you did train or because it's easy stages but actually until now every day was with some action and you do some effort".

Pogacar remains 18 seconds clear of Briton Josh Tarling in the general classification, with Spain's Pablo Castrillo placed third at 23 seconds.