Iran's national soccer team manager Afshin Qotbi has signed a contract to lead Japan's Shimizu S-Pulse club after the 2011 Asian Cup to be held in Qatar.
"I am excited about the opportunity to work in the best league in Asia and be part of a club with a rich history and ambition to be champion of Asia," Qotbi told his official website on Thursday, Press TV reported.
The 46-year-old coach's new contract will start on February 1, 2011.
When Qotbi was asked about the Iranian squad, he said, "I am fully concentrated at the challenge ahead. I have worked over 20 months to build an exciting team, Iran can be proud of. This team has all the qualities to be the champion of Asia, and I am fully committed to make this dream a reality."
The former South Korea assistant coach also urged the Iranian people to support the national team for the upcoming tournament in January.
Iran should compete with North Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and defending champion Iraq for the 2011 Asian Cup.
Iran's manager to coach Japanese club
Iran's national soccer team manager Afshin Qotbi has signed a contract to lead Japan's Shimizu S-Pulse club after the 2011 Asian Cup to be held in Qatar.
