Chennaiyin FC on Sunday announced the appointment of Csaba Laszlo as their head coach for the 2020-21 Indian Super League (ISL) season. This is the Hungarian’s first stint in Asia.
The 56-year-old Laszlo has more than two decades of coaching experience at club and international level. He has had coaching stints in eight countries, including two national teams – Uganda and Lithuania.
Two-time ISL champions Chennaiyin FC’s previous coach Owen Coyle recently moved to Jamshedpur FC as their head coach.
“I am incredibly proud and happy to become the Head Coach of Chennaiyin FC. It is my privilege to join the club on its completion of six successful years,” Laszlo was quoted as saying in a media release.
“And I’m so happy now to be a part of this family. Together with my coaching staff, we will do everything possible to take Chennaiyin to greater heights.”
Chennaiyin FC co-owner Vita Dani said Laszlo has the credentials to bring success to the club.
LASZLO’S CAREER GRAPH
Laszlo is a central midfielder himself. He was forced to retire due to a knee injury when he was 27. In his early coaching career, he oversaw the discovery of several future stars; one of the most notable ones being German international and FIFA World Cup bronze medallist Marcell Jansen.
He assumed the role of Ugandan national team boss. Laszlo took the team from 167 to 97 in the FIFA world rankings. He has also served as the head coach of the Lithuanian national team.
Laszlo then made the switch to Scottish top-flight side Heart of Midlothian (Hearts) and helped them finish third in the standings and secured qualification to the inaugural UEFA Europa League.
He coached clubs in Belgium (Charleroi), Hungary (MTK Budapest), Slovakia (Dunajsk᠓treda). He then returned to Scotland with Dundee United in the 2017-18 season. His last coaching stint was with Romanian club Sepsi OSK.