Who is Real Madrid's new coach, Santiago Solari?
Real Madrid have appointed Santiago Solari as the side's permanent manager. Earlier, the Spanish Football Association had stated that it has received the contract from the Champions League holders, Real. Los Blancos were left impressed with Santiago's style since he took over as their interim coach last month. He has been handed a deal until 2021. Here's more about Solari.
A new era begins!
Real on top of their game under Solari
Since Santiago's arrival at Real, Los Blancos have witnessed a change of fortunes. Real have managed to seal four wins out of four across all competitions. They scored 15 goals in this period, besides conceding only twice. The wins came against Melilla in Copa del Rey, Viktoria PlzeΕ in the Champions League, and Real Valladolid and Celta Vigo in Spanish league.
Prior to this job, Solari was B team's manager
Solari was appointed as a caretaker manager following Julen Lopetegui's departure. The former Spain manager was sacked after 14 games in the wake of a humiliating 1-5 defeat in El Clasico, last month. Solari was coaching the Spanish club's B team and he stepped down to take charge. The Argentine will hope to pave a new path for Real.
Solari was a celebrated Real Madrid player
Solari played for Real Madrid as a winger for five seasons during his prime. He won seven trophies at Los Blancos that included two league titles and a Champions League. Prior to his stint at Real, he had played two seasons for rivals Atletico. He had also represented River Plate in Argentina at the start of his career and won four trophies there.
Solari won titles at Inter too
Solari moved to Inter Milan in 2005 and played just 71 games for them over three seasons. This was the beginning of an end of his playing days. He won three successive Serie A titles in Milan besides a host of other trophies.
Coaching career, Argentina stint and other key info
A dynamic and versatile winger, Solari defined his prowess at the top level. He belongs to a sporting family, with his father and two brothers being footballers. Solari couldn't quite make it to the international level and made just 12 appearances for Argentina. He started as a youth manager at Real in 2013. In 2016-17, he was appointed the coach of B team.
