Exclusive: FC Goa set to appoint Juan Ferrando as head coach

The 39-year-old has previously worked with a couple of clubs in LaLiga and was also the physical trainer of Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie.

FC Goa are still looking to appoint a successor to Sergio Lobera and have found a potential replacement, as they are close to appointing another Spaniard Juan Ferrando, at the helm of the club, Khel Now has learnt.

The 39-year-old is part of a shortlist created by the Gaurs and will sign a contract soon, as the two parties have entered the final stage of negotiations.

A source close to the developments was quoted saying, "The FC Goa management went through 100s of CVs from all over the world and arrived at a decision that Juan will be the best person to take forward the legacy of the club and play the same brand of football which Goa is known for."

A former Cultural Leonesa manager Juan Ferrando has also managed LaLiga side Malaga 'B' in the past. The tactician has also worked as part of the technical staff for the first-team of Malaga during the 2012-13 season.

However, his most interesting assignment appears as the coordinator of the football school at another Spanish side Espanyol. Around the same time, he was also the physical trainer of former Arsenal duo Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie.

Hailing from Catalonia, he has managed a number of clubs around Europe and most recently was in-charge of Greek side Volos FC, whom he helped gain promotion to the Greek Super League. That also resulted in him being awarded as the best coach last season.

Moreover, he also enjoyed success with Moldovan club Sheriff Tirasapol in 2013, helping them win the Moldovan Super Cup in his first and only season in-charge.

The Spaniard spent a number of years with Volos before recently cutting ties with them. Further, the Gaurs are clearly impressed with his resume and managerial ability, which they feel can take them to the next level in the coming years.

FC Goa are all set to become the first Indian Super League club to play in the prestigious AFC Champions League next season, but are still working heavily to assemble a suitable squad with a competent head coach who can help them compete against the very best in Asia.

Carlos Pena’s retirement means he won’t be available for them and Mourtada Fall is yet to commit his long-term future to the club. The Gaurs are yet to open their own cheque book to rope in players for next season, but could perhaps accelerate things after they officially appoint Juan Ferrando as their next head coach.