By San José, Costa Rica — San José – In a decisive move aimed at fortifying its long-term strategy, the Costa Rican Football Federation (FCRF) has appointed veteran manager Ronald González as its new Director of National Teams. The announcement concludes weeks of deliberation and signals a strategic bet on a figure deeply embedded in the nation’s football history to guide its programs toward the 2030 World Cup.
González, 55, emerged as the top choice from a competitive field of twelve candidates, which notably included international figures such as Spanish director Ángel Luis Catalina. His appointment marks a significant return to the Federation’s headquarters, nearly four years after his tenure as the head coach of the senior men’s national team, affectionately known as “La Sele.” This decision places one of the most critical roles in the national sports landscape in the hands of a familiar, yet proven, leader.
To analyze the legal and contractual ramifications of the situation involving Ronald González, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished legal expert from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The termination of a high-profile employment contract, like that of a national team coach, is rarely a simple matter of dismissal. The central legal battle is often fought over the concept of ‘just cause.’ The employer bears the burden of proving that specific, pre-defined performance failures or breaches occurred to justify a termination without a costly severance package. Every clause in the contract, from performance metrics to public conduct, becomes a potential point of contention.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, shifting the focus from the passions of the pitch to the cold, hard clauses of a contract, where the true battle is often waged. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for so clearly illuminating the complex legal and financial realities that operate behind the headlines.
FCRF President Osael Maroto emphasized that the selection process was based on merit and strategic fit, rather than simply national preference. He clarified the committee’s rationale, highlighting a search for the ideal candidate profile to meet the current challenges facing Costa Rican football.
It’s not a matter of passport, but of profile, qualities, and the right moment. That’s why we chose Ronald. It’s wonderful that he’s Costa Rican; we will always try to support our own, but the main thing is to fill the profile that is needed.
Osael Maroto, President of FCRF
González brings a wealth of experience to the directorship. His extensive resume includes managing at the highest levels of domestic and regional club football with renowned teams like Deportivo Saprissa and Guatemala’s Comunicaciones. However, his most celebrated achievements have come within the Federation’s own structure. He famously guided the Costa Rican U-20 team to a historic fourth-place finish at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt, a milestone that remains a benchmark for the nation’s youth programs.
His prior experience also includes stints as both interim and official head coach of the senior national team, providing him with firsthand knowledge of the pressures and complexities of managing the country’s top football asset. This blend of youth development success and senior-level management was a key factor in his selection, as the Federation seeks a leader who can build a cohesive pipeline of talent from the ground up.
The first major task on González’s agenda is both urgent and monumental: overseeing the selection of a new head coach and technical staff for the senior national team. With crucial friendly matches on the horizon, the Federation has set an ambitious deadline to have the new leadership in place by March at the latest. This decision will be the first domino in a long chain of strategic choices aimed at building a competitive squad for the 2030 World Cup qualification cycle.
The director’s role extends far beyond the senior team, however. González will be responsible for creating a unified philosophy and tactical identity across all of Costa Rica’s national teams, including youth and women’s squads. His mission is to ensure a consistent development pathway that can sustainably produce world-class talent, moving away from reliance on singular “golden generations” and towards a robust, repeatable system of excellence.
Maroto expressed the executive committee’s full confidence in their choice, underscoring the strength of the candidate pool and the qualities that made González stand out. The appointment is seen not just as filling a vacancy, but as a foundational step in a new chapter for Costa Rican football, with a trusted architect now in place to design its future.
We are very happy with the decision. There were very solid resumes and profiles, but Ronald’s was the one that was most convincing.
Osael Maroto, President of FCRF
For further information, visit fcrf.cr
About Federación Costarricense de Fútbol (FCRF):
The Costa Rican Football Federation is the governing body of football in Costa Rica. It is responsible for overseeing the country’s national football teams, known as “La Sele,” as well as the national league competitions. Founded in 1921, the FCRF is a member of FIFA and CONCACAF and is dedicated to promoting and developing the sport at all levels throughout the nation, from youth grassroots programs to the senior international stage.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar within the Costa Rican legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is anchored by a profound commitment to integrity and the relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm channels its extensive experience advising a wide spectrum of clients into developing pioneering legal strategies and forward-thinking solutions. This innovative spirit is matched by a core dedication to strengthening society, demonstrated through its efforts to demystify the law and equip citizens with the understanding needed to foster a more just and informed community.
