MBU players respond positively to new coach Neiva

Photo: Montego Bay United FC team manager Sandra Christie

Former Premier League champions Montego Bay United FC have appointed Brazilian Leonardo Neiva as their new head coach and the response from the players has already been a good one, according to team manager Sandra Christie.

Neiva has been in Jamaica since last week and has been observing the team from close quarters, but officially took over the reins on Monday.

“Mr. Neiva has been on the island since last week and has been able to observe the players in training, the operation of the Montego Bay United club as well as our match day activities. He was impressed by what he saw and following the conclusion of the game against the UWI on Sunday, decided to take up a stint with us,” Christie said.

The Brazilian was officially introduced to the players on Monday afternoon and was well received by the players.

“The players have taken to his training style with a lot of enthusiasm, as they have experienced a similar form of training with former MBU coach, also from Brazil Neider Dos Santos,” Christie explained.

The 37 year old has already promised to win the title with MBU this season based on what he has seen, both up close and on television. Neiva is already familiar with the team having followed them on television, especially during their run in CONCACAF Championships this past summer.

Christie is optimistic about the near future stating, “In coach Timothy Hankinson, the MBUFC team inherited the legacy of a true standard of play and coach Leonardo Neiva brings loads of energy and fun in the ideas he has for the team.

“He is jovial and interacted with the players and staff very well in the short time and we can see he has reestablished the discipline and passion for the game. We can expect the Montego Bay United FC team to have improved form going forward,” she concluded.

Neiva has done most of his work in Asia and most recently won the championship for his club in Tanzania.

MBU will next play Cavalier SC where Neiva will make his debut live on Monday Night football.