SC Olhanense fans can look forward to next season with renewed optimism. Former Italian World Cup referee Luigi Agnolin, (pictured left with Pedro Proença, President of the Portugal Professional Football Leagues) who was elected president of the Olhanense Ltd Sports Company two months ago, has come good on his promise to move the club forward.
A complete new playing surface has been professionally installed over the past few weeks, including the latest in turf technology. After the problems of recent years, including having to play at the Algarve Stadium three years ago because of the substandard pitch, this will ensure a top class surface which should help to enhance the quality of football.
More importantly, manager Cristiano Bacci has signed a new two-year contract. The young Italian coach, plucked from the relative obscurity of the fourth tier of Italian football 18 months ago, has worked wonders on a very tight budget.
Ending the season with three straight wins, the team finished a very respectable seventh place in the Segunda Liga.
Luigi Agnolin, who was inducted into the Italian Football Hall of Fame four years ago, said: “I am committed to steering Olhanense towards the Primeira Liga where they rightly belong. With the support of the passionate Olhanense fans, I am sure we can challenge for a top spot next season.”
Goalkeeper Moreira has been signed by Estoril after keeping 15 clean sheets for Olhanense last season. The 34-year-old former Benfica and Portugal international was in outstanding form and there is no doubt his expertise has contributed greatly to the development of his understudy, Leo.
The 18-year-old local youngster was the only player from outside the top flight to be called up by the Portuguese FA for the national U19 squad training last season.
Jorman Aguilar is reported to be returning to Olhanense on a one-year contract with an option of a further two years.
The 21-year-old striker played the first part of the 2014-15 season, scoring two goals in 10 appearances, before returning to his home country of Panama in January 2015 to further his development. Just three months later, he made his debut for Panama in a 1-0 win against Trinidad and Tobago.
© Chris Wright/The Portugal Resident, 2016
