Héctor Berenguel returns to hometown Club as UDA U19 'B' head coach
The former LaLiga player with Dépor, Sevilla FC and RCD Mallorca takes over the reins of the UDA youth team
Héctor Berenguel, a respected figure in Almería football, has been appointed as the new head coach of UD Almería Under-19s 'B'. The former professional footballer, who had an illustrious career with Deportivo La Coruña, Sevilla FC, and RCD Mallorca, will now guide the youth team in the Liga Nacional.
The 162-cap LaLiga veteran, who also featured in 22 Champions League matches, brings a wealth of experience to the role. In an interview on UDA Radio, Mr Berenguel expressed his excitement about returning to his hometown Club, saying: 'I’m delighted to be at my hometown Club.' He went on to explain that Ibán Andrés approached him about the position and without hesitation, he accepted the offer. '30 years ago, I played for Poli Almería, one of the precursors to the current Club, and it’s a pleasure for me to return.'
Berenguel's career as a player was filled with success, including winning a Spanish Cup and a Spanish Super Cup. He joins the Under-19s 'B' team, currently leading Group XIII of the Liga Nacional and just one point behind runners-up Marbella as they prepare for a crucial away match.
'The players are highly motivated for the upcoming match, for having a new coach… their enthusiasm is palpable, and they are going to give it their all,' the new gaffer commented. He noted the team's strong structure and coaching, emphasizing the importance of maintaining continuity. 'We need to keep up the momentum. What I can contribute right now is guidance for the individual improvement of each player, which will ultimately benefit the team as a whole,' he added.
The new U19s 'B' head coach highlighted the values he hopes to instill in his players: 'Humility, hard work, and emotional stability.' He stressed the importance of rejecting egos, particularly at this stage in their development. Reflecting on his own playing days, Berenguel acknowledged the influence of renowned coaches like Irureta, Caparrós, and Manzano, as well as the lessons learned from his teammates. 'Everything I learned during my playing days is something I value highly now,' he said.
Before taking charge of the UD Almería youth team, Berenguel coached San Fernando in the third-tier Primera RFEF and served as Fran Fernández's assistant at CD Tenerife and AD Alcorcón in Spain's second division. His early coaching career also saw him work with Roquetas, P. Ejido and also Mármol Macael.