Guillermo Almada Reveals Why He Joined América: 'I Didn't Even Think About It'
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Guillermo Almada has been appointed the new coach of Mexican club América, despite previous unsuccessful stints in Spanish football.
- Almada expressed his excitement for the challenge, calling the opportunity a "once-in-a-lifetime situation."
- Club president Santiago Baños emphasized the team's goal of winning all titles, starting with the Leagues Cup.
Guillermo Almada has officially taken the helm as the new coach for Mexican powerhouse América, a move that surprised some given his recent struggles in Spanish football. Almada managed Valladolid and Real Oviedo in Spain but departed both clubs under difficult circumstances. Despite these setbacks, he received multiple offers to remain in European football. However, the Uruguayan strategist described the opportunity with América as "a pleasure and an important challenge." He stated, "After my departure, I had many offers to stay in European football, but when América arrived, I didn't even think about it; it's a situation that presents itself once in a lifetime." Almada also noted the team's positive reception, finding "spectacular" enthusiasm from the players to face upcoming challenges with the "responsibility of winning, there is no other reality in this club." América's sporting president, Santiago Baños, outlined the club's ambitious objectives for the upcoming season. "The demand of this club is to fight for all titles," Baños declared, highlighting the immediate focus on the Leagues Cup. He added that the club aims to finalize reinforcements quickly to integrate them into the team for both the Leagues Cup and the Liga MX. The ultimate goal is to be protagonists and "try to seek another title." Almada's arrival follows the departure of André Jardine. The team's readiness to embrace new leadership and strategies is evident, with Almada confident in the squad's commitment. His past coaching experience includes stints with Santos and Pachuca before his move to Europe.
Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.