Tribulietx recommits to Navy Blues

Words: ACFC Media

Wednesday 21 June 2017

AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Auckland City FC have confirmed the signature of head coach Ramon Tribulietx for an eighth season at the helm of the club.

Trbulietx’s return to Kiwitea Street on a one year deal brings continuity for the club who have claimed seven OFC Champions League titles, two Newac Zealand titles, five domestic minor premierships and a FIFA Club World Cup bronze medal since the Spaniard took over in 2010.

Auckland City FC Chairman Ivan Vuksich was pleased to lock Tribulietx in once again as they prepare for another season fighting on three fronts, including a trip to December’s FIFA Club World Cup which heads back to the aMiddle East for the first time in seven years. 

“We’re delighted that Ramon has committed to the club again,” said Vuksich.

“He’s one of the best coaches in the country and with Abu Dhabi to look forward to this year, it’s great that Ramon is back to try and help us make an impact in the UAE.”

While the challenges of competing on domestic, confederation and international stages was an important factor in Tribulietx’s return, so was the culture and structure of the club.

“I’m very happy to have finalised a return,” he said.

“At the moment, Auckland are the best fit for me. Another Club World Cup is a great opportunity for everyone at the club, individually and collectively.

“I love my job at the club and I’ve got the freedom to lead the way things need to be done and that’s very important to me. Auckland City have been great at believing in me and what I do.

“The season ahead of us looks like it will be another intense, challenging one but also enjoyable - doing what I love, coaching full time with the freedom and in a situation where I want to be.”

Tribulietx believes the Stirling Sports Premiership has become more competitive over the last few seasons with new clubs adding spice, Team Wellington winning the last two grand final and traditional rivals Waitakere United undergoing a resurgence. Meanwhile the expanded OFC Champions League has brought its own challenges.

He admits the club’s consistency puts a target on their back but it drives the club’s desire to constantly improve. It’s a pressure he’s comfortable with.

“Seven years in a row when we have been in a good position domestically or internationally in our confederation so every year there’s more people are trying to knock you down. It’s a great challenge in itself and we need to improve to stay in front.

“Our club is a winning club. They want to win every game and every competition we compete in. That is obviously impossible, no one in the world wins everything, but in striving for that, the answer is in our preparation.

“Every year you need to review how the season went in regard to resources but also in how the game is being played.

“Everyone tries to counter what we do and last year they did so a little differently to previous years. There are some things that are very clear in my mind, tactically speaking, and we need make sure we are prepared.”

The 2017/18 season is expected to kick off in October.