12 September 2007, by Paulo Carvalho

Domingos Paciencia appointed new Academica coach

Former Leiria boss signs one-season contract

Academica have wasted little time in appointing the successor to Manuel Machado by announcing ex-Leiria boss Domingos Paciencia as their new head coach.

The former FC Porto and Portugal striker started his coaching career with the Porto B-team and youth team, before taking his first position as head coach at Leiria last year.

Despite a relatively successful nine months, Domingos left before the end of the season on his own accord following disciplinary problems with certain members of his squad. He has since been working as a television commentator.

Domingos accepted a deal that will run until the end of the season, with an option for a further two if things go well, and is delighted to be back in club management.

“Academica are a historical club and I’m very happy to take charge as head coach. I always believe in my work and that of my players,” he said.

The new coach’s first match in charge will be at home to Pacos de Ferreira on Sunday.

Related: Manuel Machado resigns after poor start