HABAS THE NEW WITS MENTOR
FORMER Mamelodi Sundowns coach Antonio Lopez Habas has returned to PSL football after being named new Bidvest Wits coach yesterday.
The club confirmed the appointment of the Spaniard on a two-year deal, replacing Roger de Sa who was sacked on Monday.
“We are pleased to have secured the services of a highly experienced coach like Antonio Lopez,” said Wits CEO Jose Ferreira.
“He has a vast knowledge of the game and has worked in some of the most competitive professional environments in the world such as Spanish football as well as having coached in two Copa Americas.
“His extensive experience at development level will also ensure our club continues to be at the forefront of the development of some of the finest young talent in this country.”
Subject to a work permit, Habas will be bringing his assistant coach Miguel Gonzalez Martinez, who has also signed a two-year deal.
Habas first arrived in the country as an assistant to Sundowns coach Hristo Stoichkov in the 2010-11 season and was named head coach after Stoichkov’s departure at the end of the season.
He lasted six months, leaving Lucas Moripe Stadium under heavy police guard amid a violent protest from Sundowns fans disgruntled with a string of poor results.
He resigned and took up a job as a director of the Target Football Academy in Thailand.
But the Spaniard’s chance to prove himself as an astute mentor could be at the Clever Boys.
“Wits is a club with a rich history and I am pleased to be part of this ambitious and challenging project,” Habas said.