Mexican head coach Manuel “Manu” Can at the helm of Verdes FC during Concacaf Central American Cup against Club Atletico Independiente (CAI) of Panama in August 2025 in Panama. Photo credit: Manu Can / Facebook
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Verdes FC announced on Sunday that Mexican head coach Manuel “Manu” Can has departed the club, closing a chapter defined by championships, consistency, and one of the most dominant stretches in recent Premier League of Belize history.
In its statement, the club thanked Can for his “dedication, leadership, and impact,” highlighting the remarkable 29‑match unbeaten streak he guided the team through this season. Verdes also collected 30 points during the regular season and delivered strong performances in both league play and the playoffs, reinforcing their reputation as one of Belize’s most disciplined and competitive sides.
Can, who brought structure and tactical clarity from his native Mexico, became a central figure in Verdes’ modern era. During his time in San Ignacio, he contributed to four PLB championships—two as an assistant coach and two as head coach—helping shape a winning culture that carried the club through multiple title runs.
His leadership was also key in positioning Verdes for a potential return to international competition. The club noted that its goal remains a return to CONCACAF play, but that will not be determined until the current campaign is completed. Can’s work in previous seasons, including leading Verdes to both the Closing and Opening Season titles, helped keep the Green Machine in the regional conversation.
Manu Can’s impressive Verdes’ record – Photo credit: Manu Can / Facebook
Beyond the trophies, Verdes credited Can for instilling belief, discipline, and a strong identity within the squad. The club emphasized that his influence extended beyond matchdays, helping build the mentality that sustained their long unbeaten streak and their push for continued relevance both domestically and regionally.
“Thank you, Coach Manu Can. You will always be part of the Verdes family,” the club said in its message.
In his December 29 farewell message, Can expressed deep gratitude to everyone connected to the club.
“It is time to close a cycle,” he wrote. “Thank you to every member of the Verdes FC family—directors, staff, players, fans, sponsors, and especially the Hodes Places family. There are no words to describe how grateful I am for all the great moments we lived together.”
Can leaves the Cayo club as one of the most successful foreign coaches in Belizean football, closing his Verdes chapter with championships, records, and a legacy of stability and ambition.
Late Monday, Verdes confirmed his successor, announcing the appointment of Mexican coach Luis Antonio Valdés Salas as the club’s new head coach.
In its social‑media post, the club introduced him as “a former striker in the Mexican top league and national team,” adding that Profe Valdés Salas brings “a wealth of experience as a player and coach.”
The announcement closed with a warm welcome: “Bienvenido, Profe. Verdes for life.”
Mexican head coach Manuel “Manu” Can directing Verdes FC against Costa Rican side Cartaginés during Concacaf Central American Cup in August 2025 in Costa Rica. Photo credit: Manu Can / Facebook
The post Mexican Coach Manuel “Manu” Can parts ways with Verdes FC after successful run appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Mexican head coach Manuel “Manu” Can at the helm of Verdes FC during Concacaf Central American Cup against Club Atletico Independiente (CAI) of Panama in August 2025 in Panama. Photo credit: Manu Can / Facebook By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Verdes FC announced on Sunday that Mexican head coach Manuel “Manu” Can has departed the club,
The post Mexican Coach Manuel “Manu” Can parts ways with Verdes FC after successful run appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
