May 29, 2014 League 1 Ontario--Introducing Internacional de Toronto (from League 1 Ontario website)
Introducing Internacional de Toronto . Thu May 29 Written By: Meertins, Tyrrell The progress of Internacional de Toronto’s campaign in the inaugural season of League1 Ontario will be a source of curiosity for many soccer enthusiasts. There has been an understandably piqued excitement around this grassroots Ontario club following the decision to appoint former Boca Juniors, Newcastle United and Aston Villa player, Nolberto Solano, as the manager of Internacional. Internacional de Toronto's president, Juan Ramirez Gaston, invited Solano to Canada with the hope of developing a successful soccer program, one that would produce elite soccer players that could contend with the rigours of semi-professional play – ideally in preparation for further professional ambitions. Solano recently enjoyed a six-month spell managing Peruvian club Universitario de Deportes, Peru's most successful club. Yet, despite the heights of his previous appointment, Solano, 39, expressed clear delight at his new placement with Internacional – his first North American managerial job. “I was very excited to accept this offer, since I am a coach now and want to be involved in [regular] football,” said Solano. “I’ve missed coaching since being in Peru, and it’s a reason why I want to be involved in these plans.” Internacional de Toronto is in the process of developing a well-balanced competitive team, committed to the club’s philosophy. Solano's selection of a team filled with talent picked mainly from the Greater Toronto Area reflects this regionally-rooted philosophy, and has stated that he signed a two-year contract in order to help develop it further. It's reasonably expected that it will take time before players and supporters witness the results of his training regimen. “Everyone wants to win things, but we have to be realistic,” offered Solano. “Our club is new, whereas some clubs are already strong sides that have been training for some time. We will aim for the highest position possible.” Solano points to a selection that prioritized players that are reliable in possession, as the training staff is aiming to produce a simple, attractive, and attacking brand of play. “I like to go forward all the time, and create chances,” he said. “I would love to play like Barcelona, but you need to be realistic when you have players with different backgrounds and experiences. I like to play offensively, and we have nothing to lose – since there’s no relegation this season – so we will try to play this type of football.” One of the challenges Solano has identified in Canada is the marked difference between semi- and full-fledged professional soccer. Most elite Canadian players have academic or other professional priorities to balance with their aspirations in the game, so Solano and Internacional are developing an approach that reflects an appreciation for this stage of development. Solano speaks highly of the players, their enthusiasm, and a great willingness to manage their respective responsibilities. “[We] will try to win the league – that’s why I am here – and we’ll always challenge for top honours,” said Solano. “I hope everyone enjoys watching our team this year.” Internacional de Toronto open their League1 Ontario campaign at the Ontario Soccer Centre on Saturday May 31 at 1 p.m. vs. Windsor Stars. The club's home opener is scheduled for July 11, 8 p.m. at Lamport Stadium vs. Toronto FC Academy.
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