Stoke appoint Norwich’s Pelach as new boss after Schumacher sacking

Stoke City have confirmed the appointment of Narcis Pelach as their new manager.

Pelach, 36, has left his role as a coach at Norwich to succeed Steven Schumacher who was sacked on Monday after just nine months in charge.

The Catalan manager has worked in English football for four years, having been assistant to Carlos Corberan for three years at Huddersfield before assisting David Wagner and his successor Johannes Hoff Thorup at Norwich.

He will be joined at the Bet365 Stadium by coaches Dean Whitehead and Paul Clements as well as performance analyst Harrison Glew.

“I’ve had other chances to become a head coach in England and in other countries,” said Pelach.

“But I know the league, I know the opposition and I already know about our players. The level of the squad is good. I believe in them and I will create a playing style that suits their qualities.

“I feel a great excitement and sense of responsibility to Stoke City and can’t thank (chairman) John Coates and (tehnical director) Jon Walters enough for giving me this opportunity.

“Once I saw in their eyes how passionate they are about the club and how much they want to embrace a different identity and philosophy, I could not refuse and, once I’m in, I’m all in.”

Potters, introducing your new Head Coach.

The warmest of Stoke City welcomes, Narcís Pèlach.

— Stoke City FC (@stokecity) September 18, 2024

Before his time in England, Pelach worked with UE Figueres, CF Peralada and hometown club Girona.

Technical director Walters said: “Across the extensive dialogue I’ve had across football, including at the highest levels of the game, Narcis is one of the most respected and sought-after coaches around.

“He is exceptionally driven and meticulous and will drive those same standards from everyone around him at the club.

“Having been a head coach in Spain from the age of 25, it was always something Narcis was going to get back to. He has been patient about selecting the right opportunity.”

Pelach takes charge of Stoke, currently 13th in the Championship, for the first time on Friday when they host winless Hull City.