Thomas Sinicki, Media365: Published on Friday, January 5, 2024 at 11:50 p.m.
Daniel Urcade is not expected to take on real responsibilities with the Lobos, but the Argentine will bring his first-hand experience alongside the chosen future coach.
Since their impressive appearance in the World Cup finals in France, the Portuguese have not found a successor to Patrice Lajesquet on the bench. Sébastien Bertranc was initially appointed, but was unable to continue as a coach at CREPS in Montpellier, his favorite activity. However, the European Rugby Championship, a sort of Six Nations tournament, is fast approaching as it takes place during the first three weeks of February, with a trip to Belgium (on the 3rd) and then a welcome to Poland (on the 10th). Finally, visit Romania (Day 17).
Da Silva: “Knowledge of Portuguese and French rugby, as well as mastery of the English language”
This person will be selected in January thanks to World Rugby, which will draw up the shortlist. “We are the ones who will choose, reassures Carlos Amado da Silva, president of the federation. We have defined a profile that follows a set of indicators such as knowledge of Portuguese and French rugby, as well as proficiency in the English language, among others.” “Then the rugby world will point out some names. It's a good solution. We were also the ones who asked for Daniel Hurcade, advisor to Portugal and also Spain and South America, to accompany us further at the European Rugby Championship. After that he will continue to work with the new coach, but with less responsibility.”
Daniel Orchid, the Argentine technician and coach of Pumas from 2013 to 2018 (2015 World Cup semi-final), was already on the Portuguese coaching staff in 2007 at the first World Cup in France – the first World Cup in Portugal's history, too. . A successful last-minute operation was made possible thanks to World Rugby, who sent Daniel Hourcade as a very special advisor. Later, in July, the Portuguese will travel to play a test match against the world champions in South Africa under a coach who is now certainly experienced.
