NorthEast United FC appoints Sergio Farias as chief coach
NorthEast United FC has secured the services of Brazilian Sergio Farias, a former AFC Champions League winner, as coach for the third season of the Indian Super League.
Published : May 13, 2016 18:40 IST
NorthEast United FC has secured the services of Brazilian Sergio Farias, a former AFC Champions League winner, as coach for the third season of the Indian Super League.
With the appointment, the team expects to benefit from the worldwide experience of Farias, especially his tenure in Asia.
Addressing the audience post the appointment, actor John Abraham, co-owner of NorthEast United FC, said, “I am excited about having Sergio as the head coach. He brings tremendous leadership skills, strategic acumen and worldwide appeal, hence being the best fit to nurture and lead the team. The most important thing about Sergio is that he is a winner; his attitude matches the ambitions we harbour for the club.”
Commenting on the appointment, Ardeshir Jeejeebhoy, Director of Football for NEUFC, said, “We are delighted to bring on board Sergio Farias. We are affirmative that our team of young and passionate footballers would learn a lot from Sergio. We believe that in him, we have one of the best managers in the league. I am confident that we have the right man to lead the charge this season.”
In the past, Sergio has managed Guangzhou R&F in the Chinese Super League and Al Wasl FC of United Arab Emirates.
Some of Sergio’s finest achievements came with K-League side Pohang Steelers, with which he won the AFC Champions League (2009), the K League, the K League Cup and finished third at the FIFA Club World Cup, He was chosen as the K-League Manager of the Year in 2007.
Sergio was at the helm of the Brazil U-17 and U-20 national sides, where he famously groomed superstars such as Ronaldinho and Lucio. He went on to win the South American Championship with the U-17 side in 2000. His experience in working with young talent also extended to the Santos U-17 team.