From Premier League to Chilean Second Division: A New Challenge

Jorge Alvial, a Chilean football scout with nearly a decade and a half of experience at top European clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United, has embarked on a new chapter as the controller of Deportes Linares, a team competing in the Second Professional Division of Chilean football. Alvial aims to leverage his experience as a model for success in his new role.

A Career Built on Identifying Talent

Alvial’s career began as a goalkeeper in Chile before transitioning into coaching, and scouting. He is recognized for identifying emerging talent, including American Christian Pulisic and Canadian Alphonso Davies.

“That position is the best, a challenge every day. And I love that,”

Jorge Alvial

He spent nine and a half years at Chelsea and three years at Manchester United, working alongside renowned managers such as José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti.

European Insights and a Return to Chile

Alvial expressed his enthusiasm for returning to Chile and the challenge of elevating Deportes Linares.

“I return to Chile to a club that has supposedly never been in the first division. And that is my goal. You have to capture on challenges, that’s the most beautiful thing there is. What is life without challenges?”

Jorge Alvial

He previously worked with José Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, describing them both as spectacular people, very friendly with his players and the people around him and very humble.

Looking Ahead: A Vision for Chilean Football

Alvial also voiced concerns about the current state of Chilean football and the need for modernization in recruitment and youth development. He believes a combination of both media and improved scouting could lead to a new Golden Generation for La Roja, the Chilean national team.

He emphasized the evolving nature of the game, stating that today’s players are athletes playing soccer, who must be taught to play soccer.

FAQ

• What clubs has Jorge Alvial worked with? He has worked with Chelsea, Manchester United, FC Cincinnati, and Deportes Linares, among others.
• Which players did Alvial assist discover? He was involved in the discovery of Christian Pulisic and Alphonso Davies.
• What is Alvial’s current role? He is the controller of Deportes Linares.