The Philippine Football Federation has announced a significant change in leadership for its senior men's team, appointing Tom Saintfiet as the new head coach. This decision marks a departure from the team's previous underdog identity and signals a fresh start for Philippine football.
Saintfiet, a seasoned coach with experience in various countries and clubs, expressed his eagerness to take on the challenge of leading the national team. He emphasized the importance of personality and commitment in winning games, highlighting the honor of playing for one's country as the highest achievement.
Despite the team's current position in the World Cup qualifiers, Saintfiet remains optimistic about their prospects. He aims to create a cohesive team that believes in their potential to compete at the highest level in Asia and qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Alongside the coaching change, the Philippine Football Federation is also considering a new moniker for the team, signaling a shift towards a new chapter in Philippine football. The decision to move away from the 'Azkals' nickname reflects the federation's vision for the future and the evolution of the team's identity.
In addition to the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Saintfiet has set his sights on the regional AFF Championship, with ambitions of securing the team's first title. He emphasized a dual focus on preparing players in Southeast Asia for the Mitsubishi Cup while also scouting talent in Europe.
Freddy Gonzalez, the newly appointed director for national teams, highlighted the importance of consistency and stability in the national team programs. He emphasized the long-term nature of the project, with Saintfiet committed to leading the team for an extended period and building a strong player pool for the future.
As part of the coaching staff restructuring, former international player Ed Sacapaño has been appointed as the goalkeeping coach, further enhancing the team's technical expertise.
The appointment of Tom Saintfiet represents a pivotal moment for Philippine football, signaling a new era of ambition, determination, and strategic planning as the national team aims to make its mark on the international stage.
