Former Premier League star looks unrecognisable without iconic long hair as boss prepares for new season in SIXTH tier
THIS FORMER Premier League star looks totally unrecognisable without his signature long locks.
The left-back hung up his boots in 2013 after a rich career that mainly took place in the North East of England.
The now 42-year-old joined Sunderland in 2000 from Argentinos Juniors for £3.5m.
He became an instant fans' favourite on Wearside and made 177 appearances in a successful six-year stint.
The Argentine then joined Middlesbrough in 2006 and became the current England boss Gareth Southgate's first signing.
The much-loved star announced his retirement from professional football in 2013 at the end of his Boro contract.
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And he is now the new boss of sixth tier outfit South Shields - replacing his ex-Sunderland teammate Kevin Phillips, who was sacked in April.
The ace in question is... Julio Arca.
Arca has swapped his signature long locks for a clean cut look as he embarks on his new management journey.
The former Prem ace has returned to South Shields- the team he joined after retirement when they were in the 10th tier.
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He helped the semi-professional side to three successive promotions, all the way to Northern Premier League.
He also skippered South Shields to FA Vase glory at Wembley, to complete the quadruple during the 2016/2017 season.
The Argentine is now set for his first spell in management as he rejoins a club he represented with distinction.
: "I firmly believe this is the right time for me to come back for a different challenge, and I'm very excited about it.
"The club has grown so fast, and this is a fantastic opportunity for me to become a manager for the first time, especially with the platform we have here".
The Mariners will compete in the National League North for the first time in their history and are one promotion away from the fifth tier.
