URAWA -- Former Brazilian international and Vasco da Gama manager Tita said Sunday he is ready to take the helm at the Urawa Reds next season and will sign a contract with the J. League Division One bound club on Tuesday.
"I am trying to conclude the negotiations (with Urawa) and will sign a contract on Tuesday," said Tita after attending the Reds' 9-0 triumph over Honda Lock, a Miyagi Prefecture qualifier, in the second round of the Emperor's Cup at Urawa's Komaba Stadium.
Urawa technical director Kenji Ohkubo suggested that the club will make an announcement soon, saying, "We'll make it clear early next week. We've spoken with him and will talk to him again later today."
Tita, 42, said his negotiations with Urawa are going well and that he is looking forward to coaching one of the most popular Japanese clubs next season along with Urawa physical trainer Flavio, one of his former coaching assistants.
Flavio, formerly of Japan's World Cup team, assisted Tita when he coached Vasco da Gama last summer.
"Flavio is a good professional and this will be a good opportunity to work with him in Japan. He can help me out as he knows Japanese soccer and players so well," Tita said. "Urawa players? I'm still analyzing them. But their fans look very special, just like the ones for Flamengo. It's a great opportunity and responsibility for me to work for a team with great fans."
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