Argentina names Alejandro Sabella as the new Coach

Alejandro Sabella

Argentine Football Association on Thursday appointed Alejandro Sabella as the new Coach of the national team. This announcement comes within three days of sacking Sergio Batista following Argentina’s early Copa America exit.

Confirming the news to official news agency Telam, AFA Gen. Secy. Jose Luis Meiszner said, “The decision has been taken. Sabella is the choice.”

Batista came into the line of fire after his poor display of tactics and failure to understand his best team during the Copa America, which forced Argentina to make a quarter final exit in the tournament played at home. They managed just one win against Costa Rica in their last group game.

Batista’s replacement, Sabella, the fifth Coach for Argentina in 5 years, started off his career with River Plate in his home town of Buenos Aires before moving to Europe. There his career did not take off which prompted him to return home after about three seasons.

His stint with Estudiantes de La Plata proved fruitful with two back-to-back championship titles. However, he had to fight hard for a place in the National team and could represent Argentina only on four occasions.

Before coming in line as the successor of Batista, the 56 year old was linked to take charge of Al Jazira in the UAE. His success with Estudiantes and guiding them to Copa Libertadores title two years ago might be the reason which prompted AFA to make him the first choice.

It now remains to be seen how the new coach form his team and guide Argentina forward.