Arthur Papas sets out to forge his own path at Al Ettifaq | OneFootball

Arthur Papas has been appointed Al Ettifaq manager in the Roshn Saudi League, aiming to build on his rising reputation from Japan. According to spl.com.sa, the Australian took charge earlier this month.

He previously served as Ange Postecoglou’s assistant when Yokohama F.Marinos won the J.League in 2019. He was named Coach of the Season in the J.League’s 100 Year Vision League West Division, the short transition campaign from February to May, after guiding Cerezo Osaka to third.

The move marks a return to Al Ettifaq, where he worked almost a decade ago, including an assistant role in 2017. Papas said the club holds a special place for him, spoke of unfinished business and set an ambition to push towards a championship with fans, players and staff.

He inherits a significant task after captain Georginio Wijnaldum departed at the end of last season following three full campaigns and 36 goals. Papas has tended to work within existing structures, prioritising player development over marquee spending.

Cerezo are overshadowed by neighbours Gamba Osaka. Cerezo have never won the J.League, while Gamba travelled to the Kingdom in May to defeat Al Nassr in the AFC Champions League Two Final. Al Ettifaq, similarly, have finished seventh in the past two RSL seasons.

Papas will now stand opposite his former mentor, with Postecoglou succeeding title-winning Jorge Jesus at the RSL champions. Their meetings should be among the season’s most watchable as the apprentice tries to topple the master.

Source: spl.com.sa

“Artificial intelligence was used to assist in creating this article based on reporting from the original source quoted.”