Former Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has left his role as Coach of Greek side OFI Crete, it has been announced.
The World Cup winner had already tendered his resignation in October, but reversed his decision after pleas from fans.
Former Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has left his role as Coach of Greek side OFI Crete, it has been announced.
The World Cup winner had already tendered his resignation in October, but reversed his decision after pleas from fans.
Gattuso has previously stated his desire to take over at Scottish Championship side Rangers, and it has today been announced that the former midfielder has left Crete.
“Mr Gennaro Gattuso announces that, with immediate effect, he is no longer the Coach of OFI Crete, having tendered his irrevocable resignation,” a statement from Gattuso confirmed.
“The decision follows the latest in a series of incidents. On Monday, after the Christmas break, several players did not show up to training, and others have expressed the same intention if they’re not guaranteed their salaries.
“This situation, combined with a partial transfer ban in January, the risk of a points deduction, and the constant discovery of debts old and new being brought by creditors makes it objectively impossible to continue seriously and with the necessary serenity for the Coach and his staff to work.
“Gennaro Gattuso, who has already returned to Italy, wishes to express his regret to the fans of OFI Crete, the biggest positive element who really stuck by the team.”
The former Italian international then thanked the Greek club’s fans for their support, and revealed that he had paid some of the club’s debts from his own pocket.
“I’m so sorry for the people of Crete, who don’t deserve this and to the island where I was happy with my family and staff.
“I fought with all my might for OFI, sparing no effort, even in an economic sense: not only did I not receive all my wages, but I paid certain club expenses out of my own pocket.
“However, that’s not the point, I’m used to fighting, as evidenced by all of my sporting career, and fighting for the shirt has always been a belief of mine which I intend to transmit to the players I coach.
“Unfortunately this time I had to surrender, the current situation is beyond my strength. To stay, without any real prospect of avoiding corporate and sporting disaster would be undignified and disrespectful, especially to the people of Crete.
“I thank them, as well as those directors, staff and players who supported me in a battle which lasted six months.
“I was forced to play a variety of roles, without being able to dedicate myself exclusively to coaching, a task for which I was hired in July by the then President, Mr. Manthos Poulinakis, and which I had accepted with an enthusiasm that never failed.
“Last Monday I found only half the team at the training camp, and other footballers trying to beat cash out of me.
“At this point I realised my efforts really were in vain.
“I hope OFI and their fans have a more peaceful future and the best success.”