Ramos to replace Zico as CSKA Moscow coach

Former Real Madrid manager Juande Ramos has agreed to replace Brazilian Zico as coach of CSKA Moscow, the Spaniard said Thursday.

“I love new challenges. We are looking forward to helping the team realise their potential in Europe, and working really hard over the next three months,” Ramos said on his website, www.juanderamos.com.

Ramos agreed the deal with CSKA until the end of the country’s football season in November, according to reports. No financial details of the contract were disclosed.

Reports also said that Ramos’ main task would be reaching the play-off stage of the Champions League with Russia’s three-time champions. CSKA are in the Group B with Manchester United, Turkish side Besiktas and German champions Wolfsburg.

The deal would be extended should Ramos lead CSKA into the knockout round.

CSKA confirmed Thursday the appointment of the new coach, adding they have already ended their deal with former Brazilian coach Zico.

Ramos will be accompanied by fitness coach Marco Alvarez, who has been part of the 54-year-old manager’s coaching squad since 2003-04 when he signed for Malaga.

Former Russian international defender Viktor Onopko will also assist Ramos.

CSKA are currently fourth in domestic league with 33 points from 20 matches, 10 points behind the leaders and reigning champions Kazan.