¡Vamos, Česko! Spaniard Santi Denia Named New Czech National Team Coach
For the first time in its history, a foreign coach will take charge of the Czech national football team
Foto: Česká fotbalová reprezentace
The Czech Republic is getting a foreign national football team coach for the first time. Spaniard Santi Denia is expected to get the team back on track following its disappointing group-stage exit at the World Cup.
Spanish coach Santi Denia is taking charge of the Czech national football team. The 52-year-old has signed a two-year contract with an option to extend, the Czech Football Association, FAČR, announced in Prague. Denia succeeds Miroslav Koubek, who resigned following the Czech team’s early exit in the group stage of the World Cup.
“For the first time, the Czech national team will be managed by a foreign coach. We are pleased that we were able to reach an agreement with Santi Denia. He has extensive experience and has achieved significant success with the Spanish national teams,” said Pavel Nedvěd, general manager of the Czech national teams.
Video: ¡Hola, Santi! | Česká fotbalová reprezentace
Nedvěd added that Denia was ready to begin his work with full commitment and help give the Czech national team a new identity.
Denia, whose full name is Santiago Denia Sánchez, led Spain to the gold medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Most recently, he coached Qatari club Al-Shahania SC. During his playing career, the former defender represented Albacete Balompié and Atlético Madrid. He also made two appearances for the Spanish national team in 1997 and 1998.
Denia faces a demanding task with the Czech Republic in the Nations League. The Spaniard described the group as one of the most difficult of all. Nevertheless, he believes the Czech team has a chance.
“Why should we not be able to succeed? The key is to prepare well for the first match against Croatia and select the best possible players,” Denia said.
Foto: Česká fotbalová reprezentace
The new coaching team initially wants to get to know the players better and ensure that everyone involved is working towards the same goals. The Nations League represents the highest international level. The team intends to do everything possible to continue developing at this level.
The Czech Republic will play its first match under Denia in September. The Nations League home matches against Croatia on 26 September and England on 29 September will take place at Prague’s Fortuna Arena.
On 3 October, the Czech national team will play in Oviedo, Spain. Three days later, it will face England away at Wembley Stadium in London.
Česká fotbalová reprezentace
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