Fernando Torres lands first senior coaching role

Former Liverpool star Fernando Torres has taken his first major step into management by becoming the head coach of Atlético Madrid’s B team, which competes in the third tier of Spanish football.

The 40-year-old Spanish legend, who thrilled fans during his three-and-a-half-year spell at Anfield, has been developing his coaching skills since retiring from playing in 2019. Torres has been part of Atlético’s coaching staff since 2021 and now has the opportunity to lead their reserve side.

Torres, who scored 65 goals in 102 games for Liverpool between 2007 and 2011, played a key role in Rafael Benitez’s memorable team. His appointment as head coach of Atlético B is a significant milestone in his post-playing career.

After spending two years working with Atlético’s youth teams, the 2010 World Cup winner is eager to demonstrate his coaching abilities in a senior role. Atlético Madrid has a history of promoting from within, as seen with Diego Simeone, who managed the reserve team before taking over the first team in 2011.

Although Torres’ playing career saw a decline after his move from Liverpool to Chelsea in 2011, his connection with Liverpool fans has remained strong. The striker came close to winning the Premier League title in 2009, scoring 24 goals as Liverpool finished second.

Now, as he steps into the technical area, ‘El Niño’ may still dream of returning to Merseyside to complete his unfinished business and further solidify his legacy in Liverpool’s coaching ranks.