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UNFINISHED BUSINESS - Former coach Winfried Schäfer wants Reggae Boyz job
July 30, 2024
FORMER Reggae Boyz senior men's team head coach Winfried Schafer believes he has unfinished business in Jamaica. The German explained that he has a vision for the national team and is a firm believer that he could lead them to a second appearance at the men's senior FIFA World Cup.
"I always felt the job wasn't done. We worked successfully with the first team and we were on a good way. Behind the scenes I tried to start a programme for improved talent development and I have a clear vision for the future of Jamaican football. I feel deeply that Jamaica deserves to be at the World Cup, and I know, if there's someone to lead the team to success in the qualification, it is I," the German explained.
Jamaica's senior national men's football team has been without a coach since Iceland's Heimer Hallgrimsson resigned, following the team's dismal showing at the recent Copa America tournament. Hallgrimsson has since taken up the job as head coach of Ireland.
Meanwhile, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) announced that it is actively seeking a coach for the team, especially as the country has CONCACAF Nations League to play in September. Jamaica will host Cuba in its first game on Friday, September 6 at the National Stadium, before travelling to face Honduras on Tuesday, September 10.
The now 74-year-old Schafer previously coached the Reggae Boyz during the period of 2013 to 2016. Under his watch the team won a sixth Caribbean Cup title in 2014 and reached the final of the CONCACAF Gold Cup in 2015.
According to Schafer, he has all the tools and experience to fill the position and move the team to another level.
"The players need someone with international experience and with name recognition, because they need to trust him to build a good relationship. The Federation also needs someone they can trust to take care of the team and support with his network, ideas, experience and knowledge of the important development Jamaica needs," he added.
Schafer has a wealth of experience, having coached many clubs and national teams, including Cameroon, Borussia Monchengladbach, VFB Stuttgart, Al Ahli Dubai and in his last with Al Khor in 2021. He is currently unattached.
He added that while he has been away for eight years, the Reggae Boyz team still remains close to his heart and part of his plans, if appointed, will be to work closely with local players and develop their skill set.
"I follow the team and have a very good idea about the current situation and the issues. I see a lot of potential and I believe the team is yet to show their true potential. With the right training, analysis and team building we will grow in confidence, abilities and grit. Of course, it will be a lot of work and while players are all over in the USA, Europe and elsewhere we need to work weekly with the talents we have in Jamaica. Here, our short-term and long-term plans need to come together," Schafer remarked.
