Soccer News: Xoloitzcuintles Begin Preseason Training Under New Coach Ruben Romano & Staff
Ruben Romano held a booklet in one hand and a pencil in another. The new Club Tijuana coach stood and watched the team’s first practice of the preseason Monday on the grassy field next to Estadio Caliente. The Argentine coach took notes. He called his assistants over for a quick chat before they began fitness and tactical drills. The Romano era had officially begun for the Xoloitzcuintles.
Players reported to the stadium early morning to go through medical examinations and some fitness screens prior to the practice session that lasted nearly 90 minutes. Players dribbled balls through obstacles throughout the length of the field. Balls were kicked off boxes while dribbling and were sifted through cones. Players also dribbled balls through hurdles and other agility equipment while fitness coach Luis Canay watched and gave instruction.
“The important thing is that the players adapt themselves to the workouts and that’s what we’ll be doing these next two weeks before starting the preseason which is on the 13th,” Canay said. “Ruben’s (Romano) philosophy dictates that we get working right away from day one. His idea is to really work on technical skills, ball possession, the mechanics of passing and retaining the ball and we try to take advantage of the practice sessions to work and allow the players to become familiar with the style of which we work.”
Romano also watched from the middle of the field, studying his new squad. Romano is a veteran coach who brings a handful of experience in Mexican soccer. He has more than 35 combined years of experience as a player and a coach. Joining the Xoloitzcuintles adds to his journey through Mexico’s top-flight league. He said he came to Club Tijuana because it was a team that he felt is serious about winning another title.
The path to another title run began Monday and will continue with training sessions in Tijuana until June 13. The Xoloitzcuintles will then establish camp in Mazatlan, Mexico and train there through June 26.
Romano’s squad will return to practice Tuesday morning as the coaching staff and players continue to mesh and begin to know each other after coming off a two-week break.
“You can tell there is a lot of excitement and not only us who are new here but in the players as well,” Canay said. They all arrived in good condition, good weight from what we have been able to evaluate. We’re very happy.”
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