Valletta have appointed Jesmond Zerafa as their new coach. Zerafa, who replaces Giovanni Tedesco after the latter opted not to sign a contract extension, agreed a two-year deal.
This will be Jesmond Zerafa’s second spell at the helm of the Citizens. He had joined the club as a coach for the first time in season 2010/11 and won two consecutive championships.
Photo: Copyright © Andrew Grima
Zerafa started his coaching career with Tarxien Rainbows before joining Qormi in 2007 where he led the club to promotion to the Premier League and retaining Premier League status. After spending two years with Valletta, he returned with Qormi in October 2012, signing a contract until the end of the season. The following season, Zerafa took over as coach of Balzan in October, leading the club to a Championship Pool spot. In June 2014, he joined Naxxar Lions.
Jesmond Zerafa had a third spell with Qormi – a short one between June and October 2015. Mid-way through season 2016/17, he joined Tarxien Rainbows but he stepped down in March 2017. Zerafa then joined Gzira in February 2019 but his stay lasted until the end of the season.
Valletta have so far confirmed Gilbert Agius as assistant coach and appointed Drasko Braunovic as technical director. The club has also transferred Steve Borg to Gzira United.
Under the circumstances, perhaps this was the best solution. Hopefully there will soon be more consistency at the club. Sacking the manager every time there is a setback doesn’t work in the long run.