Former Cosmos midfielder Juan Guerra has hung up his boots for good for a spot on the bench.
Guerra announced his retirement as a player Wednesday and signed on as an assistant coach with Indy Eleven prior to the 2019 United Soccer League Championship season.
“Juan has excellent experience internationally and domestically as a player, and I’m sure he’ll transition very well into being a coach,” Indy Eleven head coach Martin Rennie said. “He’s a hard-working, diligent person who will add a lot to our club in his new role.”
Guerra, 31, played a crucial role in Indy Eleven’s midfield in 2018. In 25 starts, the 31-year-old completed more than 80-percent of his passes, created nine chances, tallied two assists and netted one goal.
“I’ve always wanted to coach,” he said. “It’s always been in the back of my head that after my playing career that I wanted to coach. I would like to thank Ersal Ozdemir and Martin Rennie for this opportunity,” said Guerra. “This is a fantastic club and I’m looking forward to getting started in my new role with this great group of guys and incredible supporters.”
Guerra spent two seasons with USL Championship club Tampa Bay Rowdies and a season with former North American Soccer League side Cosmos.
He played for Florida International University before starting his professional career with Venezuelan clubs Monagas SC and Caracas FC, the most successful club in Venezuelan history. The midfielder has four caps with the Venezuelan national team, including two call-ups for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.
