The Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA) has officially appointed Portuguese specialist Rui Jorge as the head coach of the Azerbaijan U-20 national football team. The decision was finalized following discussions during the AFFA Executive Committee meeting held on February 19.
Operative Information Center-OMM, citing the official website of the national association, reports that Rui Jorge has been formally instated in the position after the completion of all necessary legal procedures. The Azerbaijan U-20 team is set to represent the country in the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. A press conference featuring the new head coach and AFFA leadership is expected to take place in the coming days.
Rui Jorge brings extensive international experience to the role, having spent 15 years as the head coach of the Portugal U-21 national team starting from 2010. Under his leadership, the Portuguese youth squad reached the final stages of the European Championship five times, securing silver medals in 2015 and 2021. His coaching career began at Belenenses, where he managed the U-19 team from 2006 to 2010 and briefly led the senior team during the 2008/2009 season. He also previously managed the Portuguese Olympic team.
The appointment of a high-profile European coach underscores Azerbaijan's commitment to developing its youth football infrastructure ahead of major international tournaments. By hosting the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Azerbaijan continues to strengthen its reputation as a global hub for prestigious sporting events, following its successful hosting of matches during UEFA Euro 2020 and various UEFA Europa League finals in Baku.
