Moreno's Coaching Career: A Journey Through Spanish and International Football
The professional trajectory of Moreno as a football manager is characterized by a series of strategic appointments across various tiers of Spanish football and ventures into the Middle East. Known for his ability to secure promotions, Moreno has navigated the complexities of the second and third divisions before testing his skills in top-flight leagues.
Early Management and Success in the Lower Divisions
Moreno began his managerial journey on 5 December 2011, when he replaced Juan Merino at Xerez. During his tenure, he successfully guided the team to a 14th-place finish in the second tier, maintaining a comfortable margin of ten points above the relegation zone.
On 4 November 2013, Moreno took the helm at Gimnàstic de Tarragona, a third-division side, following the dismissal of Santi Castillejo. His time here was marked by significant progress; after securing promotion, he renewed his contract for an additional year on 22 June 2015.
By 13 June 2016, Moreno had led the team to a third-place finish in the regular season. Although the club narrowly missed another promotion during the play-offs—a knockout tournament used to determine promotion to a higher league—Moreno extended his contract until 2018. However, he stepped down on 24 December, with the club accepting his resignation three days later.
Rise Through the Ranks: Mallorca and Espanyol
Moreno's career gained further momentum on 20 June 2017, when he was appointed manager of Mallorca in the third division. He achieved a remarkable feat by securing two consecutive promotions via the play-offs in his first two years. However, this success was followed by a swift relegation during the 2019–20 campaign.
Following his departure from the Visit Mallorca Stadium, Moreno joined Espanyol in August 2020 on a three-year contract. He immediately restored the club's status, leading them to promotion as champions at the first attempt.
International Ventures and Top-Flight Challenges
On 28 July 2022, Moreno expanded his horizons by signing a one-year deal with Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League. His return to Spain occurred in June 2023 when he signed with top-flight Almería. This stint was short-lived, as he was dismissed on 29 September after failing to secure a win in seven matches.
Moreno returned to the main division on 27 May 2024, joining Osasuna on a one-year contract effective from 1 July. After stabilizing the team in a comfortable mid-table position, he announced on 14 May 2025 that he would leave the club at the end of the season.
Most recently, on 29 June 2025, Moreno signed a two-year contract to become the head coach of Al-Wakrah in the Qatar Stars League.
Key Facts
- Promotion Specialist: Achieved two consecutive promotions with Mallorca and led Espanyol to a championship promotion.
- International Experience: Managed clubs in the Saudi Pro League (Al Shabab) and the Qatar Stars League (Al-Wakrah).
- Spanish Pedigree: Extensive experience across the top three tiers of Spanish football.
- Recent Move: Signed a two-year deal with Al-Wakrah in June 2025.
Career Summary Table
| Club | Appointment Date | Key Achievement/Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Xerez | 5 Dec 2011 | 14th position in second tier |
| Gimnàstic de Tarragona | 4 Nov 2013 | Won promotion; 3rd place regular season |
| Mallorca | 20 Jun 2017 | Two consecutive promotions; later relegated |
| Espanyol | Aug 2020 | Promotion as champions |
| Al Shabab | 28 Jul 2022 | One-year contract in Saudi Pro League |
| Almería | Jun 2023 | Dismissed after seven matches |
| Osasuna | 1 Jul 2024 | Maintained comfortable mid-table position |
| Al-Wakrah | 29 Jun 2025 | Two-year contract in Qatar Stars League |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which clubs did Moreno lead to promotion?
Moreno secured promotions with Gimnàstic de Tarragona, Mallorca (twice), and Espanyol, where he won the championship.
How did Moreno perform during his time at Almería?
His tenure at Almería was brief; he was dismissed on 29 September 2023 after failing to win any of his first seven matches.
What is Moreno's current managerial role?
As of 29 June 2025, Moreno is the head coach of Al-Wakrah in the Qatar Stars League on a two-year contract.
How long did Moreno stay at Osasuna?
Moreno joined Osasuna on 1 July 2024 and announced his departure on 14 May 2025, completing nearly one full season.
Which international leagues has Moreno coached in?
Moreno has coached in the Saudi Pro League with Al Shabab and the Qatar Stars League with Al-Wakrah.