Officially managerless for exactly a month since the sacking of Rubén Torrecilla, Castellón today announced the appointment of Albert Rudé as the club’s new manager, on a deal until 2024.
The 35-year-old last managed LD Alajuense in 2021, when he led them to a second place finish in the Costa Rican first division. That was his first job as manager, before which he worked as an assistant at Inter Miami, Monterrey and Pachuca under Urguayan manager Diego Alonso. In addition to his practical coaching experience, Rude’s CV boasts an impressive academic record, working as a professor of sports science at the university of Vic and cofounding his own coaching academy, MBP School of Coaches. He has also been an instructor on UEFA B, UEFA A and UEFA Pro coaching courses, and worked with FC Barcelona’s academy.
“Albert will bring important knowledge of coaching methodology through his own coaching company and his academic background, which he concluded with a PhD”, the club’s statement read.
“He will be joined by his assistant Eric Lira and in the next few weeks another assistant will be announced.”
“The club wants to thank Alejandro ´Jim’ Jimenez for his important work with the team during the transition period. He will continue to work with the first team as an assistant, until a new one is confirmed.”
Felix Carvallo, Ruben Torrecilla’s ex-assistant, will also leave the club, it was announced. An introductory press conference for Rudé will be held at a time to be confirmed.
A logical and ideal choice
While his name may not be well known to most Castellón fans, Rudé is a logical and ideal choice, considering the direction and method president Bob Voulgaris wants to instil at the club.
An attacking coach by his own admission, his philosophy will fit in well with the club’s extensive use of data and analytics. In his first press conference with Alajuense, he mentioned the pressing of Klopp and the method of De Zerbi as two of his inspirations, among others. He has also posted tactical breakdowns of various iconic teams on a regular basis. His analysis of Guardiola’s Barcelona side (see below) is particularly impressive. The MBP YouTube channel is a great place to get a better idea of what he and his company are all about.
It will be fascinating to see what he his able to extract from the current Castellón side, who are currently on a six match winless run and in need of some fresh impetus. Signings are expected imminently, the first of whom looks likely to be Borja Granero from Deportivo La Coruña.