A former MLS legend is on his way to coaching in Serie A. Guillermo Barros Schelotto, a MLS Cup winner and MLS MVP in 2008, is Palermo’s new manager, the club announced on Monday.
The Argentine, who has been coaching in his native country with Lanús since 2012, has built up a solid body of work in management, including winning the Copa Sudamericana with the mid-level side.
“Today I wanted to talk with [Franco] Vazquez to ask questions about Guillermo Barros Schelotto," Palermo president Mauricio Zamparini said, as quoted by Football Italia. "He’s been a coach in Argentina for three years with Lanus, he won the Copa Sudamericana, got to the semifinal of the Copa Libertadores, and came second once and third once in the league.
“In our meeting a month ago, he said he wants to get to know European and Italian football, his vision is to then go to a top team.
“He’s a coach for a project which is starting even now, he knows the players and what Palermo’s strengths are.”
Barros Schelotto has his work cut out for him in his new position. Palermo are notorious for churning through coaches at a rate of about two a season. Sitting in 16th place at present, two spots above the relegation zone, the Sicilian club will likely have a tough second half of the Serie A campaign to ensure safety in the division for another season.
