Arsenal coach set for surprise World Cup role

Arsenal academy coach Michael Donaldson is set to join Jamaica’s backroom staff for their World Cup play-offs in March, according to The Sun

Donaldson currently serves as the head coach of Arsenal’s Under-16 side. The 43-year-old enjoyed a successful season with Arsenal’s youth team last term.

He guided the Under-16s to victory in the Premier League Cup during that campaign.

That achievement helped raise his profile beyond club football. It has now led to interest from the Jamaican national team setup.

Donaldson to balance Arsenal and Jamaica roles

According to the report, Donaldson has been scouted by Jamaica for the upcoming play-offs. He will take on the role while continuing his duties at Arsenal.

The arrangement will see Donaldson work with Jamaica on a part-time basis. He is expected to combine both roles without stepping away from his position at the Gunners.

Jamaica are currently preparing for a crucial period in their World Cup journey. The national side will contest play-off matches in March with qualification at stake.

Donaldson will be part of the coaching group tasked with guiding the team through those fixtures.
His experience in youth development is expected to add value to the setup.

The Reggae Boyz are aiming to return to the World Cup stage. They have reached the tournament only once before in their history.

Changes behind the scenes for Reggae Boyz

Jamaica are currently under interim leadership following recent changes. Rudolph Speid has been appointed interim head coach of the national team.

He took over the role after Steve McClaren left last November. McClaren resigned after a disappointing result late in the qualifying campaign.

A 0-0 draw with Curacao proved costly for Jamaica. That result meant the team missed out on automatic qualification for the World Cup.

Despite that setback, Jamaica still have a route to the tournament. The play-offs in March offer another chance to secure a place.

Victories over New Caledonia and the Congo DR would be enough to qualify. Those matches will decide whether Jamaica return to the global stage.

Donaldson will be involved as the team prepares for those decisive games. The coaching staff will be focused on turning the opportunity into success.

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