Pablo Franco Martin has revealed what surprised him with AmaZulu FC following his departure from the Betway Premiership club in September last year.
The Spanish coach is now plying his trade in Saudi Arabia, spearheading the second-tier side Al-Faisaly. He was in charge of AmaZulu for the 2023/24 season and the first three games of the current campaign.
Martin says he continues to keep track of the Betway Premiership with the hope of returning to work in South Africa someday.
Reflecting on what has taken place since his departure from AmaZulu, Martin says he is surprised that players he had recommended signing were brought in just after he left.
EX-AMAZULU FC COACH MARTIN – ‘I DON’T WANT TO JUDGE BUT…’
“I have been following PSL, CAF and of course AmaZulu. I had a great time there and I love the country. So, doors are opened from my side to work again in a good project in SA,” said Martin during the interview with FARPost.
“I do not want to judge, but when I left, it was a surprise that many players that we put on the table to sign, and for one reason or another, we were told that we were not going to sign them, suddenly started joining the team [after I left]. The same with the players we wanted to release and stayed, but they are not there anymore.”
The 44-year-old coach believes he and his technical team made a great impact at AmaZulu, instilling discipline in the team, making it competitive, and playing attractive football.
EX-USUTHU COACH BELIEVES THEY WOULD MAKE IT TO TOP 4 THIS SEASON
“Last season, we took the discipline back to the team, we made it very competitive, and we played some of the most attractive football in the country, in the league. We were about to make it to the top eight and qualified for the semis and quarters in the cups, which didn’t happen in 13-14 years,” Martin added.
“Many young stars made their debut in the first team, and more players than ever in the PSL era. [some] were called for pre-lists and official games with Bafana Bafana.
“With the current players and the way we were working, I am sure we would have made it to the top four and fighting for winning the cups this season.”
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