Bruno Lopes: Working with Jackson Martinez and the scenic Rock

On Y Clwb Pêl-Droed’s Cymru Premier podcast this week, Ifan and Jordan get to know Cefn Druids manager Bruno Lopes. 

In his interview, Lopes discusses his career to date, and the start to his tenure at The Rock.

The 36-year-old Portuguese coach joined the Druids from Portimonense in the Primeira Liga, where he held the role of Head Coach for their Under 23 squad. 

“Eight of my players last year are now in the first team. One of the guys [Beto] just scored a goal last weekend against FC Porto. I’m very happy for them, and very proud of them“.

In addition to his role with the U23s, Lopes had the opportunity to become caretaker coach for the first team in January 2020. “In Portugal, that’s the highest level of football, and one of the top 6, or top 7 leagues in Europe so a great experience for me as caretaker coach”.

“My last game was against Sporting, with 35,000 people in the stands. I managed to coach a guy like Jackson Martinez.

“When I was young, I used to look at him on the TV scoring goals for FC Porto, Atletico Madrid, and the Colombia national team, and suddenly here I am coaching a player like Jackson Martinez”. 

On the podcast, Lopes also discusses the Druids, and answers the question of which ground has the most impressive rock overlooking the pitch – The Rock or the Estadio Municipal at Braga in his native Portugal, which Lopes described as one of the most beautiful stadiums he’s ever been in.

Commenting on the scenic home of the Druids, he said: “There is a nice feeling about it, but I haven’t had the chance to experience The Rock with spectators, with fans in the stand yet”

You can listen to the whole interview with Bruno Lopes on the most recent edition of Y Clwb Pêl-Droed’s Cymru Premier podcast, as well as listen back to previous editions, including last week’s interview with Penybont manager Rhys Griffiths.

(Featured Image: Will Cheshire)