Belgian Takes Bloomfield Road Job

Blackpool FC can confirm the appointment of José Riga as the club’s new manager.





The former Standard Liege and Charlton Athletic boss, 56, has agreed a one-year rolling deal to take charge at Bloomfield Road.





Born in Oupeye, Belgium, Riga has more than 20 years of experience in football management and coaching and becomes The Seasiders’ first foreign boss.





Having achieved promotions with RCS Vise and RAEC Mons, Riga guided Standard Liege to the last 16 of the Europa League in 2012.





Previously a technical director to AC Milan’s youth academy, the Belgian took over at Charlton Athletic in March and guided the club to Championship safety.





Having taken over with the club at the foot of the table, Riga claimed seven victories from 16 games, leaving the Londoners seven points from danger.





Ironically Riga’s final game in charge of Charlton came at Bloomfield Road, which resulted in a 3-0 victory for The Addicks.







