Ch. Munkhbat Named Deren FC Manager

On 3 January 2023 Deren FC announced Chimeddorj Munkhbat as the club's new first-team manager. Munkhbat holds an A-License from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). His previous managerial experience includes tenures at FC Ulaanbaatar, Athletic 220 FC, and Khovd Western. The 47-year-old will also serve as the club's Technical Director.

As a player, Munkhbat amassed twenty-three senior international caps in defense for Mongolia, debuting in 2000 before making his last appearance in 2009. At the club level his teams included Khangarid FC and Ordiin-Od.

Deren FC has been without a coach for much of the winter break after Slovakian Marek Fabuľa's contract expired on 2 November 2022. The club and manager agreed to not renew the contract with the latter citing other opportunities and difficulties adapting to Mongolian culture as the reason.

Fabul'a had a short yet successful stint in the position. After taking over in December 2021 and arriving in Mongolia in February 2022, the tactician lead Deren FC to the 2022 Super Cup title in his first official game at the helm. Deren FC went on to a fourth place finish in the league last season. The club is now tied for top of the table exiting the winter pause.

Since leaving Deren, Fabul'a has taken over as manager of Tatran Liptovský Mikuláš of the Fortuna Liga, Slovakia's top division.

Deren is trying a new approach with their newest manager selection. The club's previous three managers have all been Europeans licensed by UEFA. Munkhbat is now Deren's third coach hired since December 2019.

Deren FC and the rest of the Mongolian Premier League clubs begin the spring half of the season on 11 March.