Who is Pedro Ribeiro? Everything you need to know about newly appointed Sunderland assistant head coach
Sunderland announced the appointment of Pedro Ribeiro as their new assistant head coach on Tuesday. After an extensive search for the right candidate to support Regis Le Bris, who joined earlier this year, the club has finally made their choice.
At 38 years old, Ribeiro may be unfamiliar to many fans as this is his first position in English football. However, his impressive background is expected to speak for itself.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman expressed enthusiasm about Ribeiro’s arrival: “We are delighted to welcome Pedro to Sunderland. We have been thorough and patient in finding the right person for this role to build on the progress we are making. Pedro brings a wealth of experience that will offer fresh perspectives, and he aligns with our values and playing philosophy. We wish him the best of luck and look forward to helping him settle in.”
**Career Overview of Pedro Ribeiro**
Born on the outskirts of Braga, Portugal, Ribeiro had a modest playing career before transitioning to coaching at just 19. He began in the lower leagues, working in youth development for FC Tirsense and FC Vizela. He later returned to Tirsense and served as an assistant at CD Feirense, where he played a role in their promotion to the Primeira Liga.
In 2011, Ribeiro received a significant opportunity at FC Porto, initially as an opponent analyst in the scouting department. He supported coaches like Andre Villas-Boas and Vitor Pereira, who eventually made him his assistant.
Ribeiro spent several years following Pereira to various clubs, serving as assistant coach at Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, Olympiacos in Greece, Fenerbahçe in Turkey, and TSV 1860 Munich in Germany.
On February 23, 2018, he became the youngest manager in Portuguese professional football when appointed by Gil Vicente. Later, he took charge of Belenenses SAD’s U23s before stepping up to manage the first team. Since early 2020, he has had roles with FC Penafiel, Academico Viseu, and Leixoes, leaving the latter in January.
**Pedro Ribeiro’s Managerial Record**
According to Transfermarkt, Ribeiro has managed 134 matches, achieving 46 wins, 31 draws, and 57 losses, resulting in a win percentage of 34.3% and an average of 1.26 points per game.
**Pedro Ribeiro’s Statement**
Upon joining Sunderland, Ribeiro expressed his gratitude to the club’s media, stating: “I’m privileged to be part of one of the most historic and progressive football clubs in English football. It’s a real honor, and I appreciate the trust placed in me. I’ll do my best to support our players as we work towards Sunderland’s long-term goals.”
