I’ll turn Petro de Luanda into Africa’s Barcelona—Artiga

Angola’s Petro de Luanda FC’s coach, Franc Artiga, has vowed to transform the team into Africa’s Barcelona and ensure they conquer the CAF Champions League.

The Girabola champions confirmed the 48-year-old’s appointment on June 23, 2025, amid high expectations placed on his shoulders owing to his Barcelona background.

Artiga distinguished himself in talent development at Barcelona academy which has a distinct possession-based playing philosophy.

Artiga’s Petro de Luanda’s Barcelona promise

Now, Artiga told Spanish newspaper Diário Sport that he wants to build a team with its own identity, drawing inspiration from the La Liga club’s academy.

The coach said his target was to lead the Angolans to the CAF Champions League title while doing so with possession-based playing style.

“I want to win the African Champions League and do it Barça style,” the coach said.

Why the Spaniard accepted Angolan team’s job

Artiga said he accepted the job for the Luanda-based side after being attracted to their tactical profile.

“They’ve been playing for a decade with a style of play that’s maintained from the youth academy to the first team, very similar to Barça’s. That’s why I sought to fit into that style,” the coach told the newspaper.

Before taking over Petro de Luanda, Artiga worked in Russia’s Khimki FC and Rodina Moskva. He also coached youth teams in the United Arab Emirates.

The Spaniard eventually embarked on his adventure in Africa to take over the Luanda outfit from interim coach Flávio da Silva Amad. Flavio had led Petro de Luanda to the Girabola league championship.