In a recent interview with The Indian Express, the former East Bengal coach Alejandro Menendez Garcia revealed how he convinced Manolo Diaz to take up the East Bengal job. After stepping down as head coach from East Bengal, Alejandro is still helping the Red and Golds. East Bengal announced Manolo as their head coach, a couple of days ago after Englishman Robbie Fowler left.
Manolo Diaz and Alejandro were familiar with each other since their Real Madrid days. Manolo was the coach of various age groups of Real Madrid. On the other hand, Alejandro was in charge of Real Madrid Castilla (reserve team) back in 2009. During Manolo’s tenure as Real Madrid C team coach, the two Spaniards came to know each other and got along really well.
“I was coach of Real Madrid Castilla from 2009 to 2011. Manolo was coach of Real Madrid C. Since then we have been good friends.”
Alejandro Menendez said to The Indian Express
Image – Football India
In an exclusive chat with indianexpress.com, Alejandro revealed the dilemma Manolo was going through after receiving the offer to become the new East Bengal boss. He had several offers around the world including one from China. However, Alejandro pushed him for the East Bengal job. He convinced him that Kolkata has an unparalleled football tradition and the football-crazy atmosphere would make him feel alive every moment. That is when Manolo decided to say yes to East Bengal’s offer.
