Guillermo Almada: Rejected offers from Europe and chose América because...

Uruguayan coach Guillermo Almada explained the details behind his agreement with América, one of the giant clubs of Mexican football, and why his European adventure ended. Almada, who last worked at Pachuca and then transferred to Spain, wore the jerseys of Valladolid and Real Oviedo but failed to achieve the desired success and had to leave these clubs. Despite receiving various offers from European football following his unsuccessful stint in Spain, the experienced coach accepted América's offer without hesitation. Almada described choosing this club as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and stated he was greatly excited to be part of such a project.

Almada's arrival meant a group of players who had worked with André Jardine for three years at the club had to accept a new coach, a situation viewed as a potential adjustment issue. However, the Uruguayan coach told the press that he saw a wonderful disposition and willingness in his first contact with the team's players. He felt that the players were aware of the responsibility required to be at a giant club like América and were ready to do everything in their power to win. This positive picture relieved Almada as he started the new project and showed the team could focus on its goals.

Club sporting director Santiago Baños clearly outlined his goals and expectations with the new coach, emphasizing that América is on the field not just to participate, but to be champions. Stating that their priority in the upcoming period is the Leagues Cup, Baños expressed a desire to complete the transfer process as soon as possible so the new team could prepare for the league in the best way. The official added that the team must play a leading role in the league again and that replenishing the trophy cabinet was their primary objective.

With the decision to hire Guillermo Almada for the vacant managerial post following André Jardine's departure, América both added an experienced name to its roster and turned down an interesting offer from Europe. Almada's performance and talent displayed at teams like Santos and Pachuca were effective in gaining the América management's trust. The coach's admiration for the Mexican league and the national team had also been mentioned in previous statements, which facilitated his winning over the fans' sympathy.

Both the disappointment experienced in Spain over the past year and the opportunities offered by a giant club like América constituted turning points in Guillermo Almada's career. The difficulties he faced while trying to adapt to the football culture in Europe directed him toward a bigger project in Latin America. The high level of professionalism of his players and the ambitious goals of the administration are seen as Almada's most important cards for success at América. The new season will show how realistic these hopes are for both the coach and the team.