Champions League: Large bonus promised to Garrido to beat Étoile du Sahel

Spanish coach Juan Carlos Garrido was officially appointed on Tuesday as the new head coach of Wydad Athletic Club, taking over from Frenchman Sébastien Desabre. The Casablanca giants, finalists in the most recent edition of the CAF Champions League, have turned to the experienced Spaniard in a bid to maintain their continental ambitions.

Garrido arrives in Morocco shortly after leaving Étoile Sportive du Sahel in early February. His familiarity with African club football is seen as a valuable asset for Wydad, particularly at a crucial stage of the season. Having previously worked in North Africa and in major competitions, he is expected to bring tactical discipline and continental experience to the Moroccan side.

His first major test comes quickly. Wydad are preparing for a decisive CAF Champions League quarter-final clash this Saturday. The club’s objective is clear: secure qualification for the semi-finals and continue their pursuit of another continental title. The stakes are high, and the management has made its expectations known from the outset.

To further motivate their new coach, Wydad’s board has reportedly promised a substantial performance bonus. Should Garrido guide the team to the Champions League semi-finals, he will receive a reward of approximately 200,000 dirhams, equivalent to around €19,000. The financial incentive underlines the importance placed on continental success by the club’s leadership.

Wydad Athletic Club has built a strong reputation in African competitions over the past decade, regularly reaching the latter stages of the tournament. After finishing as runners-up in the previous edition of the CAF Champions League, the club is determined to go one step further this season. The appointment of Garrido reflects a strategic move to ensure stability and ambition at a decisive moment.

For Garrido, the challenge is both immediate and demanding. Taking charge just days before a crucial knockout fixture leaves little time for adjustments. However, his experience and knowledge of African football could prove decisive in navigating the pressure of high-level continental competition.

The coming days will reveal how quickly the Spanish tactician can impose his vision and energize the squad. With a semi-final place and a significant bonus on the line, Garrido’s tenure at Wydad begins under intense scrutiny and high expectations.