Míchel Salgado takes charge of Brazil's North EC, eyes global stage
Míchel Salgado has been appointed head coach of North EC, the Brazilian side based in Montes Claros. The club, officially founded in June 2022, competes in the fourth tier of Brazilian football and will contest the Campeonato Mineiro, the Copa do Brasil and Série D this season.
During his playing days, Salgado was a stalwart right‑back for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. He is widely regarded as one of the most important full‑backs in Spanish football history.
North EC's profile
North EC represents the municipality of Montes Claros and has quickly become one of the most talked‑about teams in the interior of Brazil, thanks to the city’s large population. In its brief four‑year existence the club has already secured places in the state championship, the national cup and the fourth‑division league.
Salgado's coaching résumé
After hanging up his boots, Salgado turned to youth development in the Middle East before becoming sporting director of Pafos in Cyprus. He gained his first senior coaching experience as Javier Aguirre’s assistant with the Egyptian national side between 2018 and 2019, and he holds a UEFA Pro licence.
Most recently, he coached the Saudi Arabia Under‑15 team, taking part in talent‑development programmes aimed at preparing players for the 2034 World Cup (Mundial). These projects underline his commitment to nurturing young prospects on a global scale.
The region’s media has already dubbed Salgado’s arrival a turning point, with local outlets reporting heightened anticipation for his first training sessions. North EC’s management believes his experience will help the side navigate the challenges of Série D and potentially climb the Brazilian football hierarchy.
The appointment has sparked excitement across Montes Claros, where supporters hope the Spanish veteran will translate his competitive spirit into tangible progress for North EC. Salgado aims to build a reputation on the global stage and to guide the club through the upcoming state and national competitions.