Hernan Crespo is back! Ex-Chelsea and Inter star returns for second stint in charge of team after Al Ain departure

Crespo has returned to Brazilian club Sao Paolo for his second spell in charge, the club confirmed in an official statement. He has signed a deal keeping him as the manager of the club until December 2026 and replaces Luis Zubeldia.

After departing Sao Paolo on mutual terms in 2021, Crespo joined Qatari side Al Duhail where he won three titles before joining United Arab Emirates side Al Ain in 2023 with whom he won the Asian Champions League.

In his first stint, Crespo won 24 matches our of 53. Speaking on the appointment club president Julio Casares said “The relationship that was built between Crespo and São Paulo during the coach’s first stint has laid a solid foundation of mutual respect and admiration. He is a great professional who already knows the club, has won a title here and the time has come for him to return. We are pleased to make this return a reality."

Crespo's first match in charge will be when Sao Paolo take on Red Bull Bragantino in the Serie A. The club will hope that his second term in charge is as successful as his first.