Quinton Fortune Signs Contract Extension with LALIGA Side Real Oviedo
- Quinton Fortune signed a new contract with LaLiga side Real Oviedo after helping the club secure promotion to Spain’s top flight
- The Bafana Bafana legend has been part of the coaching team under Veljko Paunovic since March 2025
- Fortune’s role in Real Oviedo’s historic return to LaLiga has earned him and the coaching staff contract extensions until 2026
Bafana Bafana legend and former Manchester United star, Quinton Fortune, has signed a new contract extension with LaLiga side Real Oviedo, solidifying his growing reputation in European coaching circles.
Source: Getty Images
Fortune has been part of the backroom staff under Serbian head coach Veljko Paunovic since March 2025. In that short space of time, the former South African international has already helped orchestrate a fairytale rise — Real Oviedo clinched promotion to LaLiga in June, winning their promotion playoff final in dramatic fashion.
The triumph marked the end of a 24-year absence from Spain's top-flight football for the Asturian club. Their return to LaLiga was met with jubilation from the city of Oviedo and admiration across Europe, as the club completed one of the most emotional comebacks in recent memory.
New Contracts for the Entire Coaching Staff
Real Oviedo's official website confirmed that Paunovic’s coaching team has all been handed contract extensions through to the end of the 2025/26 season, a clear vote of confidence from the club’s leadership.
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The coaching staff includes Quinton Fortune, Claudio Arzeno, Nuno Miguel Gomes, Alberto Martínez, and returning goalkeeping coach Jesús Unanua.
The club lauded the team's collective effort in transforming Oviedo into a top-flight competitor once again, with a special spotlight placed on Fortune’s growing influence.
Source: Getty Images
What Coaching Qualifications Does Fortune Hold?
Fortune is not just a former elite player — he is a UEFA Pro Licence holder, the highest coaching certification available in Europe. This credential qualifies him to manage or assist at the top level in any European league.
His coaching career began after his playing days ended, with roles at Manchester United, Cardiff City, Reading, and within the England youth setup. He also broadened his horizons by working with Chivas in Mexico, building a coaching résumé that reflects a mix of tactical knowledge and global experience.
This move to Real Oviedo marks his first senior role in top-tier European football, and it's one that could open even bigger doors in the near future.
Ambassador and Inspiration
Outside of football, Fortune continues to inspire through his ambassadorship with the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. Recently, he was celebrated at an event in London commemorating the 10-year anniversary of the Kick4Life initiative, a Lesotho-based football-driven charity that empowers youth through sport.
The former South Africa midfielder, who earned 46 caps and featured in both the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups, remains a prominent symbol of perseverance, leadership, and giving back.
Fan Reactions from South Africa
News of Fortune’s coaching success and contract renewal sparked an outpouring of pride and admiration from South African football fans across social media:
@Thabiso_M:
“Our legend is rising again — this time from the dugout! So proud of Quinton!”
@Lebo_SportQueen:
“Fortune is proof that South Africans can make it in Europe, not just as players but as leaders. Bravo, coach!”
@Bafana4Life:
“We need him back in SA football someday. He’s learning from the best and could transform our coaching structures.”
@CapeTownFanboy:
“He was always classy on the field. Now he’s showing the same quality off it. Congrats, Quinton!”
What’s Next?
As Real Oviedo prepares for its first season back in LaLiga, the spotlight will no doubt grow on their coaching staff — especially on Fortune.
It’s a potential breakthrough moment for the 48-year-old, one that could see him emerge as a future head coach, either in Europe or back home in South Africa.
His journey continues — not just as a former football star, but now as a rising coach making his mark on the global stage.
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Source: Briefly News
