South Melbourne FC can confirm that Esteban Quintas has been appointed as SMFC Senior Head Coach for the 2020 NPL Victoria season.
Quintas was caretaker coach for 18 games this season following Con Tangalakis’ resignation after Round 7.
The 40-year-old Argentine has had a wealth of experience in Europe over the past two decades, with a long career in Spain including with Atletico Madrid and various clubs in the Spanish Segunda Division.
Since retirement, Quintas has embarked on a coaching career that had him lead Real Murica and Hercules CF in Spain.
Injured central defender Luke Adams will join Quintas’ coaching staff as an Assistant Coach. Adams suffered a horrific injury to his anterior cruciate ligament during our FFA Cup win over Langwarrin and is expected to miss a large part of the 2020 season. His career so far with the club has seen him play in 115 matches across all competitions, scoring 8 goals and playing a key role in the 2016 NPL Championship win.
Luke found himself part of the coaching staff in the later stages of the 2019 season and has accepted the position as assistant senior coach to Esteban. The pair will bring a great combination of football knowledge both from Australia and abroad.
Speaking to smfc.com.au, Senior Football Director Andrew Mesourouni , he was pleased with the appointments.
“Esteban has spent many years in the Spanish football environment and has a wealth of experience at all levels of the game. More importantly he has spent quite a bit of time within our club working with players across multiple age groups. His appointment has already been welcomed by all of our senior players. He certainly understands the history and expectations of the club and we look forward to supporting him throughout the pre-season as we embark on a successful season on the park.”
“Luke is a much-loved person in our club and his leadership is something that has stood out during his time as a player. With a passion for the game and our club, Luke will be an important factor to our season. We are thrilled to have him as an Assistant Coach, after accepting Esteban’s offer to work along side him”
We wish them all the best for the 2020 season and beyond.