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Bielsa to remain as Chile boss

Jadue said Bielsa, who had threatened to quit in November, had not presented his resignation by the January 31 deadline which the Argentine had set himself to give the ANFP his decision.

"Today I met with the national team coach Marcelo Bielsa in a meeting that lasted no more than 15 minutes and in which I reiterated our intention that he remain in charge of the team," Jadue told reporters.

"He told me he would reply in writing. Unfortunately he hasn't done this yet, but I interpret his silence in an optimistic manner. Marcelo Bielsa stays.

"He's aware of my interpretation and what I was going to communicate to the news media," Jadue said.

However, the result of that election was declared null and void days later because of a clash between Segovia's business affairs and his position as president of first-division side Union Espanola.

"Next week, since we're continuing our work, we'll prepare for the friendly match in March with Portugal," Jadue said.

"We have a coach, a match and the Copa America... so we're very optimistic because we consider him an excellent trainer."

He cemented his popularity with a victory over his home country Argentina in a World Cup qualifier in 2008. It was Chile's first win over their powerful neighbours in a competitive match and sparked the resignation of rival coach Alfio Basile with Diego Maradona taking up the reins.