Pune FC appoints Dutch coach Mike Snoei for next season

New Delhi: I-League team Pune FC has appointed Dutchman Mike Snoei as their head coach for next season.

The Rotterdam native will be on his first stint in India and becomes the third foreign coach signed by the club since its inception in 2007. On this new appointment, Pune FC Director, Nandan Piramal said: "Mike will be a great addition to Pune FC. He brings with him a wealth of experience from the top levels of both European and Asian football. As we continue to invest in our academy and youth teams, Mike will be the perfect fit to develop these players and help the club reach our long term goals." The 49-year-old`s appointment means he will be the fourth Dutch coach to be involved with Indian football and only the second at club-level. The vastly travelled Snoei, a defender during his playing days, comes with outstanding pedigree. He began his career at the biggest Rotterdam club Feyenoord (1981-82), before moving to neighbouring Excelsior (1982-88) and Sparta (1988-93). "It gives me immense pleasure to be associated with Pune FC, who is one of the premier football clubs of India. As new coach, I hope to bring a new dimension to the team and also develop a style of play along the way. I am sure, that working with young and dynamic players will enable me to further develop as a coach. I also hope to give the team a new vision and grow together with Pune FC," Snoei said about his new assignment. Snoei was forced to retire early due to torn knee ligaments. A 29, he called it quits at Sparta in `93. Snoei was also a member of the Netherlands squad at the 1983 FIFA World Youth Championship (U-21) in Mexico along with the famed striker Marco van Basten. Snoei is expected to arrive in India in the first week of July to meet both the management and team before taking full charge. PTI