Guwahati: Delivering a statement of intent for the upcoming season of the Hero Indian Super League (ISL), NorthEast United FC (NEUFC) has secured the services of Brazilian manager, Sergio Farias. The former AFC Champions League Winner will lead the Guwahati based Club into the third edition of the ISL.

The North Eastern states have historically showcased sincere promise and potential in the field of Football. The appointment of Brazilian Football Manager, Sergio Farias, for an Indian team marks the dawn of international competencies made available indigenously. Following the appointment, the team expects to benefit from the worldwide experience of Sergio Farias, especially his tenure in Asia and the Middle-East. .

Addressing the audience post the appointment, film actor and producer, John Abraham, co-owner of NorthEast United FC, said “I am excited about having Sergio as the Head Coach. He brings tremendous leadership skills, strategic acumen and worldwide appeal, hence being the best fit to nurture and lead the team. The most important thing about Sergio is that he is a winner; his attitude matches the ambitions we harbor for the Club.”

Further commenting on the appointment, Ardeshir Jeejeebhoy, Director of Football for NEUFC said, “We are delighted to bring onboard Sergio Farias as our Head Coach. We are affirmative that our team of young and passionate footballers would learn a lot from Sergio. We believe that in him, we have one of the best managers in the League. I am confident that we have the right man to lead the charge this season.”

In the past, Sergio has managed Guangzhou R&F in the Chinese Super League and Al Wasl FC of United Arab Emirates. Some of Sergio’s finest achievements came with K-League side, Pohang Steelers with whom he won the AFC Champions League (2009), the K League, the K League Cup and finished third at the FIFA Club World Cup, He was chosen as the K-League Manager of the Year in 2007.

Sergio was at the helm of the Brazil U-17 and U-20 National sides, where he famously groomed superstars like Ronaldinho and Lucio. He went on to win the South American Championship with the U-17 side in 2000. His experience in working with young talent also extended to the Santos U-17 team.