Hyderabad FC set to sign Manuel Roca as new head coach

The Spaniard is in line to replace compatriot Albert Roca at the helm of the Nizams.

While Hyderabad FC were impressively gracious in allowing the former Bengaluru FC tactician to walk away, they’re having discussions with a manager with a similar philosophy. Manuel Roca remains the priority to replace the Spaniard after Albert personally recommended him as his replacement. Earlier, the club's assistant coach from 2019-20 season, Xavier Gurri Lopez was also in contention for the job.

However, Hyderabad FC want continuity in their style of play and approach to games, something which Manuel Roca will ensure that thanks to his superior level of experience managing in Spain. The 51-year-old has been in-charge of both the Espanyol "B" and Las Palmas "B" sides in the past, being extremely successful with the latter, as he won 31 games out of 40 managed for Las Palmas – in which they scored 97 goals as well!

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After a very short stint as the boss of Las Palmas’ senior team, Roca had an unsuccessful spell at Croatian first division side NK Istra, before taking charge of Thai Premier League outfit Ratchaburi Mitr Phol FC for a single game in 2018.

Hyderabad FC have had a few crazy weeks after announcing a long-term partnership with Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund and even signing former Mallorca midfielder Joao Victor for the next season. They have had a tricky situation with head coaches in their very short history, after Phil Brown was unable to match their expectations, taking them to a bottom-placed finish in their debut campaign.

Of course with their squad shakeup and quality additions, Hyderabad will be expecting better results term. Manuel Roca has nearly two decades of experience in management and encourages an attractive attacking style of football, so he should definitely make Hyderabad FC a more prolific unit.   

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