Tony Franco

Antonio "Tony" Franco López (born 28 August 1981) is a Venezuelan football manager, currently in charge of Marítimo de La Guaira. He began his managerial career at a young age, showing a strong aptitude for leadership and strategy on the field. Before taking the helm at Marítimo de La Guaira, Franco had several stints with various clubs, honing his skills and developing a reputation for his tactical acumen. His managerial style is often described as dynamic and adaptive, focusing on both defensive solidity and creative attacking play. Over the years, Franco has been instrumental in promoting young talent, integrating promising players into the first team and helping them develop their potential. Under his guidance, Marítimo de La Guaira has seen significant improvements in their league standings and overall performance. Franco's success at the club level has also brought him into consideration for national team roles, reflecting his growing influence in Venezuelan football. Additionally, he has been involved in several community outreach programs, using football as a tool for social development and youth engagement. Franco continues to be a prominent figure in the Venezuelan football scene, respected for his contributions both on and off the pitch. His career trajectory suggests a bright future, potentially leading to opportunities in larger leagues or national team management.

Career
Born in Caracas, Franco was an assistant of Richard Páez and Marcos Mathías at Mineros de Guayana before being appointed manager of the club in March 2015. In October of that year, he replaced Jhonny Ferreira at the helm of Carabobo.

On 28 November 2015, Franco was announced as manager of Caracas for the 2016 campaign. Sacked on 25 November, he was named at the helm of Aragua on 5 December.

On 25 March 2018, Franco was appointed manager of Atlético Venezuela, after agreeing to a contract until December 2019. He left the club on 5 November, and subsequently moved to Europe to study.

In July 2019, Franco joined Spanish club CD Izarra's coaching staff as an assistant of Unai Jáuregui. He was an interim manager for one match after Jáuregui left in October, but left the club on 14 December; the following day, he was appointed in charge of Carabobo back in his home country.

Franco left Carabobo on 29 October 2020, and subsequently returned to Izarra, again as an assistant. He was the latter's interim manager the following January, but left in April.

On 20 May 2021, Franco was appointed manager of Yaracuyanos, but resigned on 23 September. He returned to Carabobo on 4 July 2022, in the place of Kike García, but was himself dismissed on 7 October.

On 27 January 2023, Franco returned to Mineros, but left on a mutual agreement on 13 April. On 10 July, he was named manager of Monagas after Jhonny Ferreira was appointed the club's sporting director, leaving on 19 October as his contract would not be renewed.