Sabella replaces Batista as Argentina coach

Former Estudiantes boss Alejandro Sabella has been appointed head coach of the Argentina national team, replacing Sergio Batista.

Sabella, 56, was announced as Batista’s replacement on Thursday.

He had been expected to take over United Arab Emirates team Al-Jazira, but failed to arrive in the country on schedule, sparking rumours – now confirmed – that he has abandoned the Gulf club in favour of Argentina.

“The decision has been taken. Sabella is the choice,” Argentina football federation general secretary Jose Luis Meiszner told news agency Telam.

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.

As head coach, Sabella led Estudiantes to Copa Libertadores glory in 2009 and the Argentine Apertura title a year later.

He resigned in February 2011 and signed an agreement to coach Al Jazira on June 11, joining Al-Wasl manager Diego Maradona in taking over a UAE Pro-League club.

But he appears to have backed out upon being offered the chance to replace Batista, who departed the role on July 25 after just 12 months in charge.

Batista had originally taken over from Maradona as a caretaker on July 27 2010.

He was appointed to the role on a full-time basis in November, but could only lead the team to a quarter-final exit from the Copa America on home soil this month.

His replacement, Sabella, made four appearances for Argentina as a player.