Sabella confirmed as Argentina boss

Argentina Football Association President Julio Grondona has confirmed Alejandro Sabella will take over as the country’s national team coach.

AFA general secretary Jose Luis Meiszner last week revealed former Estudiantes boss Sabella was the organisation’s first choice to succeed Sergio Batista, who was sacked after Argentina’s dismal Copa America showing last month.

Grondona has validated his colleague’s comments, but said there would no formal unveiling, with Sabella’s appointment now common knowledge.

“The details are being finalised but Sabella has already been presented (in the media) and will be coach from here … until the World Cup in Brazil, contingent on Argentina qualifying for the tournament,” Grondona said, referring to the FIFA showcase in 2014.

Sabella, 56, had been expected to take over United Arab Emirates team Al-Jazira, having signed an agreement to coach the United Arab Emirates Pro-League club back on June 11.

But he failed to arrive in the country on schedule, opting instead to take up the opportunity to lead his national team.

After a playing career that included spells at River Plate, Sheffield United, Leeds United and Estudiantes, Sabella served regularly as an assistant coach to Daniel Passarella, head coach of Argentina between 1994 and 1998.

Passarella and Sabella also worked together with Uruguay, Parma, Corinthians of Brazil and Mexican side Monterrey.

Sabella then led Estudiantes to Copa Libertadores glory in 2009 and the Argentine Apertura title a year later, before resigning in February 2011.

He made four appearances as a player for the Argentina national team.