German coach Marco Kurz wants to bring some of his country’s emphasis on youth to Adelaide United.
The German will take charge of his first Hyundai A-League game as United coach later today in Wellington.
And in good news for the side’s youngsters, Kurz won’t hesitate to give them an opportunity.
“For me, age is not as important as quality,” Kurz told www.a-league.com.au.
“If I see an 18-year-old player and he’s better than a more experienced player, then I’ll play the younger player.
“My first target as a head coach is to develop players and especially young players.
“If I can help young Australian players make the step to overseas, that’s great,” he said.
Kurz has first-hand knowledge of the effectiveness of top-class youth development.
“Germany changed their youth system ten years before their World Cup win in Brazil,” Kurz explained.
“They spent a lot of money on German academies. Bayern Munich’s new academy cost 70 million Euros.
“So you can understand the opinion and meaning of the youth system in Germany.”
Kurz’s first Hyundai A-League assignment is away to Wellington Phoenix later today.
And the Reds coach is targeting a fast start to the season.
“It’s important to start well in Wellington and then we’ll see week to week,” he said.
“In this league you can win or lose every game.
“You must do a great job to win and that’s the challenge, but I’m very positive.”
