"The most important thing for us was to continue working according to the clearly established club system. That’s why we chose Lars. He has all the qualities needed to become a successful coach for Sparta. I'm talking about his understanding of the training process, his coaching style, his vision of the game, and his tactical skills," says AC Sparta Prague sporting director Tomáš Rosický. "We also know that he has an influence on the work in our other categories. He is a very hardworking person who has had a significant impact on our game over the last eighteen months," Rosický explains.
"Lars knows our environment, players, and game scheme very well. Practically immediately after his arrival, he smoothly integrated into our system. We will continue on the set path, from now on with Lars at the helm," the sporting director introduces the new coach.
Friis joined the A-team coaching staff eighteen months ago after the departure of the previous assistant coach, Thomas Nørgaard. Since then, he has become a crucial part of Brian Priske’s coaching team. Now, the forty-eight-year-old expert, who has previously managed Danish clubs Viborg and Aalborg as head coach, will take on the same role at Sparta.
"The fact that I know the environment and everyone around makes the move to the head coach position much easier. I know how the internal processes are set, and what the goals and expectations are. Moreover, when you receive such an offer from a club like Sparta, there is no reason to hesitate," says Lars Friis, who also has experience from Brentford.
"Our philosophy is clearly set. Not only in terms of long-term goals but also in the small details we deal with on a daily basis. A solid foundation is very important; only with it can we elevate our work. Even though I will now be the one leading, the collective performance of the entire coaching team remains the most crucial," Friis acknowledges the new responsibility. "We have had an enormously successful season, culminating in winning the double. But that is not enough; we must always look ahead, set more challenging goals, and stay constantly hungry," Friis concludes.
