Stoke City has officially announced the hiring of Narcis Pelach as their new manager.
Pelach, 36, has departed from his coaching position at Norwich to take over from Steven Schumacher, who was dismissed after just nine months in charge.
The Catalan manager has spent four years in English football, serving as an assistant to Carlos Corberan at Huddersfield for three years before working with David Wagner and Johannes Hoff Thorup at Norwich.
Joining him at the Bet365 Stadium are coaches Dean Whitehead and Paul Clements, along with performance analyst Harrison Glew.
“I’ve had other opportunities to become a head coach in England and other countries,” Pelach stated.
“But I am familiar with the league, the competition, and our players. I have faith in them and will develop a playing style that suits their strengths.
“I am thrilled and feel a strong sense of duty to Stoke City. I am grateful to (chairman) John Coates and (technical director) Jon Walters for this opportunity.
“Their passion for the club and desire to embrace a new identity and philosophy was evident, and I couldn’t turn it down. Once I commit, I am fully committed.”
Potters, introducing your new Head Coach.
The warmest of Stoke City welcomes, Narcís Pèlach.
— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) September 18, 2024
Before his stint in England, Pelach worked with UE Figueres, CF Peralada, and his hometown club Girona.
Technical director Walters remarked, “Through my extensive conversations in football, including at the highest levels, Narcis is one of the most respected and sought-after coaches out there.”
“He is incredibly dedicated and meticulous, and will demand the same standards from everyone at the club.”
“Having been a head coach in Spain since the age of 25, it was inevitable that Narcis would return to that role. He has been patient in choosing the right opportunity.”
Pelach will lead Stoke, currently positioned 13th in the Championship, for the first time on Friday as they take on winless Hull City.