Ethiopian Football Federation has appointed Atenafu Alemu as Head Coach for Ethiopian national U-23 team. Hardly a club coach since his sacking from Ethio-Electric Club four years back, Atnafu’s appointment was questioned by many including the Professional Footballers Association.
The former national team assistant Atnafu’s immediate task at hand is to form the Ethiopian U-23 squad ahead of the coming African U-23 first round two leg qualification matches against Democratic Republic Congo. Despite the qualification matches are just two weeks away Atnafu signed a one year contract promising to bring about the best of a squad capable of progressing to the group stage.
In his first interview to the media Atnafu boldly outlined his mission at hand as regards developing young players. “I am here for a mission therefore despite the short period of time for preparation and many of the players already in club preseason campaign; I will give it all my best shot.” Atenafu suggested.
Though Atnafu announced a thirty-two players short list of players called to camp a week before, there are still number of players that are not yet reported to camp. “I believe the clubs are more than willing to send the players for it is all about representing one’s country in such big stage” AtnafuAlemu.
Morocco is the host country of the U23 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled November 2-26, 2023.