Postecoglou to take up Yokohama job

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Bengaluru, December 19: Former Australia coach Ange Postecoglou, has reportedly agreed to take up J League club Yokohama F-Marinos job next season.

At Yokohama, Greek-born Postecoglou, who quit the Socceroos job last month after guiding them to a fourth successive World Cup, will replace Erick Mombaerts.

It is reliably learnt that the Frenchman was eyeing a return back to Europe after the current season ends.

"I am excited to be moving to Japan and returning to club football," said Postecoglou, who had previously coached many clubs in Australia, including Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory.

The 52-year-old said he was particularly looking forward to working with the club's younger players.

Yokohama F-Marinos are part-owned by the City Football Group (CFG), who also own Premier League club Manchester City, Major League Soccer's New York City, Melbourne City in Australia and Uruguayan club Atletico Torque.

Club president Koichiro Furukawa said Postecoglou would encourage "an attractive and entertaining style of football which will suit our approach."

Yokohama F-Marinos came fifth in the J-League last season, trailing champions Kawasaki by 13 points.

Australia have said they do not expect to appoint a coach for next year's World Cup until February, amid a "high level of interest" in the job since Postecoglou stepped down.

Former United States boss and Germany legend Jurgen Klinsmann is reportedly keen on the job.

Australia have been drawn in a tough Group C at the World Cup, along with higher-ranked teams France, Denmark and Peru.

(With Agency inputs)