ISL 2023-24: NorthEast United FC appoint Juan Pedro Benali as Head Coach

Kolkata: NorthEast United Football Club announces the appointment of Juan Pedro Benali as Head Coach on a one-and-a-half-year contract. Mr. Benali, 54, has coached teams on three continents – Europe, Asia, and Africa – and served as the Technical Assistant for the Finnish national team throughout his successful career spanning over three decades.

Mr. Benali stated, “It is a great honour for me to accept the appointment as the Head Coach of NEUFC.” I am really delighted to begin on this adventure with the Club as we seek to construct a competitive team capable of competing at the highest levels.”
Mr. Benali, an African Super Cup Finalist with RS Berkane in 2021, brings a track record of achievement and distinction with him. In 2008, his performance as head coach of Vissel Kobe culminated in the team being promoted to the J League and receiving Japan’s “Best Attack” Award. His accomplishment with SCC Mohammedia led to him joining Al Ghrafa Sports Club in Qatar where he led the team to a second-place finish, on level points with the champions, narrowly missing out on the league title on goal difference.

Mr. Benali, throughout his career has also been involved in setting up and running academies and speaking on the talent that exists in the region, Mr. Benali said “The Northeast region is the heart of Indian football and is home to some of the country’s best footballing talent that we will look to nurture. The region also has very passionate and knowledgeable fans, and I will try my best to make them proud.” Mr. Benali has been watching the Hero ISL attentively in recent years due to his various contacts in Indian football.
“I have diligently followed the league, observing many players who have either played
alongside me or competed against me such as Hugo Boumous, Noah Sadaoui, Mourtada Fall,and Zaid Krouch. As well as having the pleasure of working alongside distinguished
professionals like Sergio Lobera, Stuart Baxter, and Miguel Ángel Portugal who competed in
this league.”
Speaking on the appointment NorthEast United CEO, Mandar Tamhane said, “We are
delighted to welcome Juan to the Club. Not only is Juan a fantastic coach and a master
tacKcian, but he also has the unique experience of managing in three different continents
across the world. The diversity of the teams he has coached is a testament to his evolving
tactical style and his knowledge of the global footballing landscape. His experience at the
Youth level will also help us in creating a pathway for the talent from the region.”