Former national U-23 coach Garrido takes charge of Sabah FC

KOTA KINABALU (Feb 25): Former national Under-23 head coach Juan Torres Garrido has been appointed to lead the Sabah Rhinos for the remainder of the Malaysian League season.

The official appointment of the Spanish-born coach was announced by Sabah FC team manager Mohd Arziz Afizy in a statement.

Garrido takes over from Alto Linus, who had been acting head coach following the resignation of Jean-Paul de Marigny last December.

Alto will now return to his previous role as assistant head coach.

“Garrido’ first game in charge will be against Negeri Sembilan FC in the Super League tie at the Likas Stadium on Saturday,” said Mohd Arziz.

He added that Garrido’s experience managing the national Under-23 squad, along with his familiarity with the Malaysia League, were key factors behind his appointment.

He believed the new coach presence will bring positive changes to the team, particularly in the efforts to improve Sabah FC position in Super League

“Our main focus is also to advance to the final of the 2025–2026 MFL Challenge Cup,” he said.

Mohd Arziz hoped the players will give their full commitment, demonstrate high discipline and to quickly adapt to the coach’s training approach.

“With strong team spirit and the determination of all parties, I am confident that Sabah FC can achieve better results after this,” he said.

Sabah FC are currently sitting just above the relegation zone in 11th place in the 13-team Super League, having collected 14 points from 15 games.

The Rhinos too are involved in the MFL Challenge Cup, where they have qualified for the semifinal after beating PDRM 3-1 on aggregate in the quarterfinals.