Australian coach Peter Cklamovski made a promise to FC Tokyo fans upon his appointment in J1 League and it is to “become a team that everyone fears”.
Cklamovski has been making waves in Japan and Tokyo have turned to Ange Postecoglou’s former assistant following the departure of Albert Puig.
It means a return to Japan’s top flight for the ex-A-Leagues coach, who was sensationally sacked by J2 League outfit Montedio Yamagata in April, despite turning the club from relegation candidates in 2021 to promotion hopefuls on a limited budget.
Cklamovski was part of Yokohoma F.Marinos’ coaching staff when Postecoglou guided the side to a drought-ending triumph in 2019 before he was appointed by Shimizu S-Pulse but endured a difficult and brief tenure in 2020.
The former Perth Glory, Adelaide United and Melbourne Victory coach, and Socceroos assistant, joins fellow Australian and F.Marinos boss Kevin Muscat in the coaches dugout in J1 League as he tries to lift Tokyo up from 12th position through 17 rounds.
“I am honoured, proud and excited to be appointed as the manager of this special football club,” Cklamovski, who is known for his exciting and high-octane brand of football, said.
“A lot has to be done to get to the club’s dream location. We will work hard together with the players, staff, and everyone involved in the club, and do our best to reach the destination as soon as possible.
“Our promise to all of our fans and supporters is to become a team that everyone fears. Players have a strong mentality to achieve something special. And we have great fans and supporters who walk alongside us, creating a magical and great atmosphere in the stadium. Please keep cheering for our players and we will always fight with passion.
“Let’s make dreams come true together and lead the club to success. We have nothing to fear.”
Tokyo have lost their past three consecutive league games, including a 3-2 defeat at home to F.Marinos earlier this month.
Cklamovksi’s first J1 League fixture will be against a familiar face – Australian goalkeeper Mitch Langerak’s Nagoya Grampus on June 24. Nagoya are second in the standings, one point behind defending champions F.Marinos.
Muscat and Cklamovski will go head-to-head in J1 League on August 19.
