Cesare Prandelli was formally introduced as Al Nasr’s new manager on Monday night. The former Italy national team manager, who signed a two-year contract, spoke to the press at the Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai.
Top-level pedigree
Prandelli, 59, managed Italy between 2010 and 2014, guiding them to a runner-up finish at the 2012 European Championship. He has extensive experience of club management, too, with spells at Serie A sides Parma, Roma and Fiorentina. Most recently, Prandelli managed Spain’s Valencia, but resigned in December. He replaces Dan Petrescu, who led the club to a sixth-place finish in the 2016/17 Arabian Gulf League. Nasr were beaten finalists in the President’s Cup.
On why he chose Nasr
“One of the reasons I came to Al Nasr is for a new experience and to work with a chairman like Humaid Al Tayer, because he’s looking out for everything at the club. I was happy because he has been following my history and knows everything about my career and experience. Therefore from day one I already feel at home. He has requested me to pass on all my experience to the players and that’s what I promise to deliver.”
On resources at his disposal
“Yesterday I visited the stadium and before I even put my request in for facilities I found everything is already there. So this club is already at a high level and has a mission to achieve a lot in the future. Before signing the contract I also studied the capacity of the staff and players who are already available at the club and from that moment on I realised they wouldn’t need much.”
On challenging for the AGL title
“All my technical staff are now ready to work at a high level with Al Nasr to ensure we end the year with a trophy. But we will need everyone to work together to reach the title. I need to work very hard to see how I can make this season very special. What I can promise is serious work and focus to develop the players to get them playing better game-by-game.”
jmcauley@thenational.ae
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