Coach Garrido returns to African football to take charge of Libyan giants Al Ittihad
Experienced Spanish tactician Juan Carlos Garrido has been unveiled as the new head coach of Libyan club Al Ittihad SC, marking his return to African football.
Garrido, 55, replaces Osama Al-Hamadi, who left the club after just four matches in the Libyan Premier League due to disappointing results.
The Spaniard arrives in Tripoli after a brief stint with Iranian giants Persepolis, where his tenure ended following a 3-1 loss to Mes Rafsanjan last month.
Garrido brings a wealth of experience to Al Ittihad, having enjoyed a successful coaching career across Africa and Europe.
He previously led Egypt's Al Ahly to victory in the 2014 TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup and the Egyptian Super Cup.
The following year, he replicated his TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup success with Morocco’s Raja Casablanca.
His African experience also includes stints with Tunisia’s Étoile du Sahel, Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca, and Algeria’s USM Alger.
Upon his arrival in Tripoli, Garrido signed his contract and toured Al Ittihad’s facilities, expressing enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career.
"I am delighted to start a new chapter at Al Ittihad and I hope together we can achieve great things at this club that has a big history in Libyan football," Garrido said.
Club officials, including the chairman and football director, welcomed him warmly, emphasizing their confidence in his ability to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Al Ittihad, one of Libya’s most prominent clubs, hopes Garrido’s expertise will bolster their domestic campaign and enhance their competitiveness on the continental stage.
Garrido’s CV also includes coaching roles at Villarreal and Real Betis in Spain, as well as Al Ain in the UAE and Al Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia.
With a reputation for achieving success in challenging environments, Garrido’s return to African football has generated excitement among Al Ittihad fans eager for a revival under his leadership.