The Malta Football Association has appointed Ray Farrugia as national team coach.
His appointment as Malta coach was discussed and approved unanimously during a meeting of the Malta FA Executive Committee, held this evening. “In the circumstances, we felt that we should hand the reins of the national team to a Maltese coach who is already part of our technical sector, has a sound knowledge of Maltese football as well as the experience to prepare and lead the team in international matches,” Norman Darmanin Demajo, the Malta FA President, said. “The stability of our national team is our top priority and to this end, we are confident that Ray Farrugia has the ability and experience to fulfil this role in the best possible manner.” Farrugia will take charge of the men’s senior team with immediate effect. His first task is to prepare the squad the upcoming commitments, including the training camp in Austria and the friendly matches in the May-June period. He takes over from Tom Saintfiet who was relieved of his duties as national team coach on April 25. Farrugia, who has also had two spells as Malta Under-21 coach, steps up from his role as national team assistant coach, a position he has held since 2014. Farrugia, 62, also served as assistant under several coaches, including Josif Ilic and Pietro Ghedin.