Predicted Lineups: [published_date] Former Premier League cult hero, now unrecognisable, lands first managerial role in the sixth tier.

South Shields FC have announced the appointment of Argentinean footballing legend Julio Arca as their new first-team manager. This comes after Kevin Phillips left the role by mutual consent just a week ago.

Arca, who made over 300 appearances for Middlesbrough and Sunderland during his playing career, has been working as an academy coach at Grimsby Town since retiring from professional football in 2017. However, it is clear that the 40-year-old has always wanted to step into management, and this opportunity with South Shields presents him with the chance to do so.

The club has been making headlines in recent years thanks to their unprecedented success in the non-league pyramid. Since being taken over by chairman Geoff Thompson in 2015, South Shields has won three promotions in four seasons – an incredible feat for any team. And now, with the appointment of Arca, there is a sense that the club is aiming even higher.

Arca brings with him a wealth of experience from his days as a professional footballer. He played in the Premier League for both Middlesbrough and Sunderland, in addition to a brief spell with Hull City. He was also a key part of the South American national team, representing Argentina in the 2005 Confederations Cup, among other tournaments.

But it is not just his playing experience that makes Arca an exciting appointment for South Shields. He has also been working towards his UEFA coaching badges since retiring, showing that he is committed to developing his knowledge of the game. And, as someone who has played at the highest level, Arca knows what it takes to be successful.

Of course, there will be challenges that come with the job. South Shields has built a reputation for playing attractive, attacking football, and the fans will expect nothing less under Arca’s leadership. However, there is also the added pressure of maintaining the club’s winning mentality – something that can be difficult in the notoriously competitive World of non-league football.

But Arca is ready for the challenge. In a statement released by the club, he said: “The vision of the club is very clear and exciting, and I’m looking forward to working with everyone to make sure we can achieve our goals.” And with his experience and passion for the game, it is likely that he will do just that.

Overall, the appointment of Julio Arca is a bold move by South Shields FC. But it is one that shows the club’s ambition and desire to keep moving forward. As a non-league success story, there will be many eyes on South Shields this season, and with Arca at the helm, they will be looking to continue their impressive rise through the ranks of English football.