Auckland United men’s head coach José Figueira has been appointed New Zealand Men’s U-20 assistant coach to work alongside the previously announced new Men’s U-20 head coach Chris Greenacre. 

Figueira has previously been involved with New Zealand Football as head coach of the Men’s U-17 side, where he twice won the OFC Men’s U-16/U-17 Championship, and as an assistant coach with the All Whites.

Domestically, as Auckland United men’s head coach he has qualified for the National League Championship in the last two seasons. 

Prior to his current position, Figueria has held head coach roles with Auckland City FC and Team Wellington, and won the ISPS Handa Premiership and OFC Champions League to qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup.

Figueira holds both the UEFA A and OFC A coaching licence and is currently part of the first group on New Zealand coaches undertaking the OFC Pro Licence diploma. 

Keir Hansen, New Zealand Football General Manager High Performance, said: 

“It is great to bring José back to New Zealand Football as part of the new coaching team for our Men’s U-20 side. 

“We have seen from the performance at last year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup the level of Kiwi talent that is being developed and competing on the international stage. 

“It will be exciting to see Chris and now José guide and support the generation of players to emerge.”  

José Figueira, incoming Men’s U-20 assistant coach, said: 

“I’m delighted to be back working with New Zealand Football and proud to be helping the development of our next generation of footballers. 

“The men’s national programme is in a really exciting space with many of our young talented players becoming key pieces with Darren in the All Whites, and I’m looking forward to assisting Chris to showcase the next group of Kiwi talent.” 

José Figueira will split the role with his current position at Auckland United.  

Article added: Wednesday 13 March 2024