Aguirre to replace Zaccheroni as Japan coach

TOKYO — Mexican Javier Aguirre is set to become Japan's new coach following the resignation of Alberto Zaccheroni, local media reported on Monday.

The Japan Football Association said no formal decision has been made, but Nikkansports newspaper reported Aguirre is expected to travel to Japan in July to sign a $2.45 million a year deal that would run through the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

The 55-year-old Aguirre guided Mexico to the round of 16 at the World Cup in 2002 and 2010.

Zaccheroni stepped down after Japan was eliminated from the World Cup following a 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast, a 0-0 draw to 10-man Greece and a 4-1 thrashing by Colombia.

Colombia coach Jose Pekerman and former Nagoya Grampus manager Dragan Stojkovic were also mentioned as candidates to replace Zaccheroni.