Argentine Rodolfo Zapata will take over as MBU manager this season. (Photo: Paul Reid)
Argentinean Rodolfo Zapata has been named the new manager of Jamaican Premier League club Montego Bay United (MBU).
The club announced the decision on Tuesday.
The 58-year-old, who has travelled extensively abroad, replaces Brazilian coach Neider dos Santos, who was sacked at the end of the season despite a strong second half of the season which saw the team narrowly miss out on a play-off spot.
MBU was unbeaten in its last 10 games but missed out on the playoffs due to goal difference.
According to an MBU announcement, the club is undergoing a “transformation with new investments in resources, players and management. The new manager will further strengthen the club’s capabilities as the team aims to win the JPL Championship within the next two years.”
The release also stated the club’s desire to improve on last season’s performance.
“Coach Zapata brings extensive football and coaching experience to the team. He has worked in Africa, Latin America and the United States and has a great ability to adapt training programs to national cultures,” said MBU President CD Yoni Epstein. “We look forward to capitalizing on his approach, which is fueled by continuity, consistency and a desire to win.”
Zapata began his career as a professional soccer player in Argentina before earning a coaching degree and moving to North America to work for the U.S. Olympic Development Program, where he coached the U.S. national team and developed young players.
He has served as head coach of some of the biggest clubs in South Africa, Botswana, Nigeria, Kenya and Rwanda, as well as the Fiji U20 national team.
“To build a winning team, you must first establish a winning culture. I want to accomplish something big here, but it will take hard work. I’m here to work hard and I’m not going to waste any time,” said Zapata. “We’re going to start this season strong and finish strong. I’m here to take MBU to the next level and ultimately get promotion to CONCACAF.”
