PETALING JAYA: Luis Garcia’s appointment as Johor Darul Ta’zim’s new chief executive officer (CEO) has attracted the attention of former world football stars.
The former Spanish international shared his appointment on his social media pages, which drew numerous comments from netizens, including those who played with or against him in the past.
Two-time Euro champion and 2010 World Cup winner Andres Iniesta was one of the first to comment, using a three-hands-up emoji to celebrate Garcia’s appointment in Johor. Iniesta and Garcia were teammates in the national set-up from 2006 to 2008.
Additionally, 2002 World Cup winner and Brazilian legend Gilberto Silva wished him well on Instagram, saying: “Congratulations on the new role and good luck.”
Other former top players who wished him well included former Spanish and Atletico Madrid midfielder Mario Suarez, former Liverpool and Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant, and former Holland, Barcelona and Liverpool winger Boudewijn Zenden.
Former Malaysian international Lee Tuck, who is now in England working in real estate, even chimed in with, “Enjoy mate, great club.”
Garcia will start his job on April 1, replacing Australian Alistair Edwards, who will now serve as the club’s chief operating officer and technical director.
The hiring of Garcia is expected to strengthen the management of the club.
Based on the responses on social media, it appears that Garcia has what it takes to help the Southern Tigers gain global recognition soon.
