Official: Guidolin retires as Coach

By Football Italia staff

Francesco Guidolin has officially retired as Coach of Udinese, but will be “supervisor” of the Friulani, Watford and Granada.

The decision had been in the air for several months and was decided this morning, as confirmed by director of sport Giaretta.

“The Coach remained firm on the same position he held a month ago. From next season he will no longer be the Coach of Udinese, but take on the role of technical supervisor.

“Guidolin will supervise the three teams of the Pozzo family. We wish him all the best.”

The Pozzo family own three clubs in Europe: Udinese, English Championship side Watford and Spanish Liga outfit Granada.

They often exchange players on loan and have tried to create a transfer synergy between them.

“This is a wonderful day for me, because I will no longer be a Coach, but I can remain here,” said Guidolin in his Press conference.

“I am pleased to stay here, give my contribution and face this new challenge. A new adventure begins and I am curious to see how it goes.

“It’s no coincidence I chose to wear a jacket at this conference, because there are going to be some changes. It’s a new phase of my life.

“I have so many games behind me. I don’t know how I will settle into this new role. I also feel a little sadness, but I want to underline this is entirely my choice. It is what’s best for me.

“Over the next few days I will be at the disposal of the club, then I’ll begin a lovely vacation and after that start working on this new job.”

Udinese have not yet announced who will be the Coach from next season, though Guidolin has been involved in the decision.

“I gave a few indications for my successor and, when he is chosen, I’ll be sure to support him, as I know the environment.

“My wife is very happy, especially as we’ll continue to live in Udine. My children are also convinced it is the right decision.

“Perhaps it was decisive that at the first non-exceptional campaign, I felt something was changing. I chose this year to retire because I didn’t want the memories of my tenure to be ruined, but perhaps I left it too late... People seem to perceive this as a failure of a season, but I don’t believe that.

“I have so many wonderful memories, above all the dance after our game with Milan and when Gasparin first told me of the opportunity to be Coach of Udinese.

“The most bitter moment was against Braga,” he said of the Champions League preliminary round exit on penalties.

“I know that I’m not the best in terms of communication, so I also thank all the journalists for our years together.”

Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £9.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://www.premiersports.com/subscribenow