Red Warriors parade new football coach

Former CF Manila head coach Frank Muescan will call the shots for University of the East’s men’s football team in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 86 men’s football tournament.

Muescan told DAILY TRIBUNE that he will take over the coaching reins from Fitch Arboleda as the Red Warriors are targeting a Final Four spot.

UE finished in sixth place in Season 85 with a 4-4-4 win-draw-loss record with 18 points.

“I took the job because I’m excited to share what I learned and experienced in the pros,” Muescan said.

“It won’t be effective at first but eventually, if you have the concept and experience, you can be confident enough that the players will be able to do what you want them to do.”

Muescan’s recent club stint saw CF Manila go as far as the quarterfinal of the 2023 Copa Paulino Alcantara before getting knocked out by finalist Davao Aguilas FC on aggregate in two legs, 0-2.

The former United City FC member said he wants to teach UE skills to professional clubs to challenge powerhouses such as defending champion Far Eastern University, Ateneo de Manila University, University of Santo Tomas and De La Salle University.

Given that he has only a short time to prepare, Muescan said implementing the teachings will be the priority for the team.

“Some teams already had their training camps for the UAAP. We only have a short time to prepare before the league starts in February.

“We will sustain it until it becomes a system for the team. The important thing is the training program is realistic.”

Muescan, who will also have the services of CF Manila players Nicho Sumanoy and Edmar Adonis in UE, wants his players to be patient with the ball and build momentum before rushing in for the goal. “Since I had a long experience in the pros, the quality of play of the team will change. It won’t be like direct football where you give it to the striker once you get the ball. Here, you will see there will be organization, pocket play and flanks,” Muescan said. “It’s just like you see in teams like Kaya, and Ceres. This is not an overnight thing. This will be a long

process.”