The Brazilian stalwart transitions from player to coach after making an outstanding impression on our young talent during his time at the club.

Luxol St. Andrews FC is delighted to announce the appointment of Marcelo Dias as the club’s new Head Youth Coach. A Brazilian-born defender with a decorated career across Maltese football, Marcelo has been one of our own since joining Luxol St. Andrews in January 2025 and his impact on this club has already been felt long before today’s announcement.

From the moment Marcelo arrived at Luxol St. Andrews, he was more than a player, he was a presence. On the pitch he led by example, bringing the composure, experience and winning mentality that comes from over two decades as a professional footballer across Malta’s top flight. Off it, he was equally influential.

What set Marcelo apart during his time as a player here was his extraordinary connection with the club’s younger players. He took it upon himself to mentor those emerging from the youth ranks into the senior setup offering guidance, encouragement, and the kind of honest, experienced advice that only someone who has lived through the demands of professional football can provide. Young players visibly grew in confidence around him.

Simultaneously, Marcelo was quietly furthering his coaching qualifications, demonstrating a clear vision and commitment to his next chapter in the game. His motivation, tactical knowledge, and ability to communicate with players of all ages made the transition from senior player to Head Youth Coach a natural and obvious step for everyone at the club.

Coach Marcelo’s appointment reflects Luxol St. Andrews FC’s commitment to building a clear, structured pathway from youth football to the first team. He has already demonstrated that he knows how to inspire young players, how to challenge them, and how to prepare them for the step up to senior football.

His combination of elite playing experience, ongoing coaching development, and the genuine bonds he has already formed with our young players makes him uniquely positioned to lead this programme. We have every confidence that under his guidance, and the watchful eye of Senior team Assistant Coach Milan Todorovic and Senior Team Head Coach Marko Rajic the next generation of Luxol St. Andrews talent will thrive.

“I am incredibly proud and excited to take on this role. I have given a lot to this island as a player, and now I want to give back to help the next generation of footballers develop not just their technical skills but their mentality and their love for the game. Luxol St. Andrews is a club with real ambition and I look forward to building something special with the young players here.” said Marcelo Dias, Head Youth Coach, Luxol St. Andrews FC

Jason Falzon Chairman of Luxol Sports Club and Capt. Nigel James Dunkerley Vice-President St. Andrews FC said “We are thrilled to officially welcome Coach Marcelo into the Technical staff at Luxol St. Andrews in this new and challenging role. His passion for the game, his character, and the quality he has shown over his career make him the ideal person to lead our youth setup.”