Pep Clotet, the head coach of Birmingham, will depart the team at the conclusion of the current campaign, the club has confirmed.
Six months after being hired permanently, the 43-year-old made the decision to leave St Andrew’s on his own, according to a statement from the Sky Bet Championship team.
Being a member of the Blues family is a privilege, so Clotet stated: “It’s been a really difficult decision to take, but it’s the best step for everyone and it allows the club to continue moving forward with their vision and strategy.”
“I sincerely appreciate the club, its board, and the fans putting their trust in me to guide the team this season and to rise to the challenges posed by what has been a crucial transition under extremely trying conditions.
“Now is the time for us to concentrate on the balance of the season and for the team to keep laying these foundations.”
After Garry Monk left the team in March 2018, Clotet became the assistant to him, moving up to the position of caretaker until receiving the permanent position in December.
Following a run of subpar performances, the Spaniard felt pressure mounting, but he looked to have some time on his side after going 13 games without a loss before the coronavirus suspension.
Birmingham, eight points ahead of the bottom three, will start the Championship season in 16th place.
Jude Bellingham, the team’s youngest player ever, was one of the six Academy players who made their senior debuts under Clotet’s leadership. He also received praise for his dedication to the club’s younger players.
We are grateful for Pep’s departure as a friend, even though he entered as a colleague.
He has been very professional throughout, putting the needs of the club before his own, and he has done a very good and thorough job for us.
