NorthEast United FC
NorthEast United FC came close to finishing in the top four. Pictured: ayers in action during an ISL match between NorthEast United FC and FC Pune City at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium in Guwahati, on Dec 2, 2015.IANS

NorthEast United FC have announced Sergio Farias as head coach for the next season of the Indian Super League (ISL). Sergio has won the AFC Champions League. 

The new coach will take over from Cesar Farias, who was in charge of the footballing affairs of NorthEast United FC during ISL 2015.

The team will gain from Sergio Farias' international experience feels the team management.

The NorthEast outfit gained had a decent ISL in 2015. They came very close to making it to the final four of the tournament. But unfortunately they finished fifth in the ISL 2015 points table.

The owner of NorthEast United FC, John Abraham, is reportedly happy to have roped in the Brazilian. He is also apparently hopeful his side will come up with a much better show in the next season of the ISL.  

"I am excited about having Sergio as the Head Coach. He brings tremendous leadership skills, strategic acumen and worldwide appeal, hence being the best fit to nurture and lead the team. The most important thing about Sergio is that he is a winner; his attitude matches the ambitions we harbor for the Club," Abraham was quoted as saying by the official website of the ISL.

Sergio has managed Guangzhou R&F in the Chinese Super League and Al Wasl FC of United Arab Emirates in the past. He led the K-League side Pohang Steelers to the AFC Champions League trophy in 2009. Sergio also led the Steelers to the K-League Cup and came third in the FIFA Club World Cup. 

He is also known to have trained and groomed superstars like Ronaldinho and Lucio when he was in charge of the Brazil U-17 and U-20 sides. 

"We are delighted to bring on board Sergio Farias as our head coach. We are affirmative that our team of young and passionate footballers would learn a lot from Sergio. We believe that in him, we have one of the best managers in the League. I am confident that we have the right man to lead the charge this season," NEUFC Director of Football Ardeshir Jeejeebhoy said.