The Ecuadorian footballing scene, and that of South America in general, has been shaken by an announcement that many saw coming. Through social media, the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) issued a statement confirming the departure of Spaniard Félix Sánchez Bas as coach of the Tricolor. This decision came just a few hours after the elimination in the quarter-finals of the 2024 Copa América, at the NGR Stadium in Houston, at the hands of Argentina in a dramatic penalty shootout (4-2; they tied 1-1 in regulation time).
In the press conference after the match, Félix Sánchez avoided confirming his departure, stressing that “it was not the time to digest the defeat, especially in a penalty shootout, which is more painful.” However, the FEF was quick to make official what was already an open secret.
In its statement, the federation said: “The termination of the contractual relationship with technical director Félix Sánchez has been agreed. We thank Félix and his coaching staff for their work and professionalism and we wish them success in their future projects.”
Hired in March 2023, Sánchez had signed a contract until 2026 with the mission of taking Ecuador to the next World Cup and improving its performance in international tournaments. Despite leaving the team in qualifying positions for the World Cup, the Spanish coach could not escape criticism and opposition from a part of the Ecuadorian fans and media.
This is how the Ecuadorian Football Federation announced the departure of Sánchez Bas.
In search of a new leader: Guillermo Almada in the spotlight
With the departure of Félix Sánchez confirmed, the FEF is faced with the task of finding his replacement. The name that resonates most in the corridors of the federation is that of the Uruguayan Guillermo Almada. Currently managing Pachuca of Mexico, Almada has gained many options as the main candidate to take charge of the Tricolor.
This is not the first time that his name has been mentioned for the Ecuadorian bench; in fact, he was on the list of possible candidates before the Copa America. Almada’s experience and success in Mexican football make him an attractive option for the FEF.
Other candidates: Luis Zubeldía, Jorge Sampaoli and José Pékerman
Although Almada appears to be the favourite, he is not the only name on the FEF’s list. Luis Zubeldía, current coach of Sao Paulo, is also in the spotlight. The Argentine has an impressive track record in Ecuador, where he led Liga de Quito to win the Copa Sudamericana and Liga Pro. However, his contract with the São Paulo club could complicate his arrival.
Another big name is Jorge Sampaoli. With vast experience in national teams, having managed Argentina and Chile, Sampaoli is known for his intensity and attacking style of play. Although his temperament can be a double-edged sword, his ability to inspire and motivate his players is unquestionable.
Finally, José Pékerman, who was in charge of the Venezuelan national team until a year ago, is also an option considered by the FEF. Known for his ability to work with young talents and his success with the Colombian national team at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, the Argentine could replace Sánchez Bas.
Jorge Sampaoli is being linked with being Ecuador’s next coach. (Photo: Getty Images)
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