New Villarreal manager Manuel Preciado dies day after taking job

Manuel Preciado, who was due to be unveiled as the new coach of Villarreal tomorrow, has died of a heart attack, the Spanish club have confirmed.

Villarreal, relegated from La Liga last season, had announced yesterday that Preciado would take charge of the club next term.

The 54-year-old former Sporting Gijon manager was due to be presented to the media tomorrow.

However, Villarreal said in a statement this morning "The coach Manuel Preciado died overnight in Valencia as a result of a heart attack.

"The Cantabrian, who had been chosen by Villarreal to lead next season's project, was 54 years old.

"Villarreal want to express their deepest sorrow at the sad loss and want to offer their condolences to his family and all his relatives."

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