• Pizzi helped Chile win the Copa America Centenario in 2016 and reach 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup final

• Pizzi guided Saudi Arabia to the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 AFC Asian Cup

• He was part of Spain squad in the 1996 UEFA Euro and 1998 FIFA World Cup and earned 22 caps

Shilarze Saha Roy Juan Antonio Pizzi, the seasoned coach with a wealth of experience in Asian football, has taken up the coaching role of Bahrain’s national team. Despite facing early setbacks in his coaching career, Pizzi has emerged as a successful tactician, guiding teams to victory and leaving a lasting impact on the footballing world. Born in Argentina on June 7, 1968, Juan Antonio Pizzi enjoyed a successful playing career primarily in Spain. The striker represented Spain from 1994-98 and donned their jersey on 22 occasions, including the 1996 UEFA Euro Championship and the 1998 FIFA World Cup. Pizzi’s club career saw him play for prominent teams in South America, Mexico and Spain such as Rosario Central, Valencia CF, FC Barcelona, and Club Atlético River Plate.

Notably, Pizzi played a crucial role in Barcelona’s triumphs, winning titles like the 1996 Supercopa de Espana, 1997 UEFA Super Cup, and the 1996-97 and 1997-98 Copa del Rey. One of his most remarkable moments came during the Copa del Rey quarter-finals second leg match, where he scored Barcelona’s decisive goal in a thrilling 5-4 home victory over Atletico Madrid. The Blaugrana had been trailing 3-0 at half-time, making the comeback even more memorable. After retiring in 2002, Pizzi transitioned from the field to the sidelines in 2005. Pizzi, though, faced adversity early on in his coaching career. He was sacked after just three matches as the manager of Argentina club Colon Santa Fe in 2005 but he remained undeterred and determined to prove his coaching ability. Juan Antonio Pizzi bounced back, accumulating experience at various clubs he once represented as a player. But it was in Chile where he truly established himself as a respected coach. Leading Universidad Catolica to a Chilean Primera Division triumph in 2010, he showcased his tactical acumen and leadership skills.

Pizzi's triumphant stint at Universidad Catolica opened doors to coaching opportunities at renowned clubs such as Rosario Central (2011-2012) and Valencia (2013-2014). His impressive track record and achievements eventually led to his appointment as the coach of the Chilean national team in 2016. It was here where he stamped his authority as a coach when he steered the team to victory at the Copa America Centenario in 2016 and guided them to the final of the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup. Despite Chile narrowly missing out on qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Pizzi garnered admiration for his coaching abilities. Following his tenure with Chile, Pizzi found a new opportunity as the coach of Saudi Arabia, leading them to the 2018 FIFA World Cup and the 2019 AFC Asian Cup. His time with Saudi Arabia earned him further recognition and respect within the footballing community. Now, Pizzi is set to embark on another Asian football adventure with Bahrain, aiming to replicate his past success and lead the team to new heights. Pizzi’s coaching philosophy centres around the importance of teamwork and possession-based football. Influenced by the renowned Dutch school of football, he emphasises ball possession, creating scoring opportunities, tactical discipline, and attacking play. Pizzi’s passion for the game and dedication to his craft are evident in his approach to coaching.

Reflecting on the differences between coaching national teams and clubs, Juan Antonio Pizzi acknowledges the challenges and rewards of both. While national teams allow for a broader player pool and the opportunity to correct mistakes through periodic squad changes, club coaching enables a deeper understanding of individual players through long-term collaborations. Pizzi’s experience in both realms has honed his ability to adapt and get the best out of his players in various contexts. As Pizzi takes on the coaching role of Bahrain’s national team, he leaves behind his position as the coach of UAE Pro League side Al Wasl SC. During his tenure, Pizzi led the team to a commendable fifth-place finish in the 2022-23 season. Looking ahead, Bahrain find themselves in Group E of the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2023, alongside Korea Republic, Jordan, and Malaysia. Pizzi’s strategic acumen and ability to motivate his players will be crucial as Bahrain will aim to make a mark in the tournament.