Chennai City FC part ways with head coach Akbar Nawas

The 44-year-old led the club to I-League title victory in 2018-19 season.

Chennai City Football Club and head coach Akbar Nawas have mutually parted ways ahead of the 2020-21 season. "Chennai City Football Club would like to thank Akbar Nawas for his exemplary contribution to the club," the club's statement read. "The CCFC family would like to wish the very best for his future endeavours."

Nawas leaves the club after highly-successful stint in the I-League. Having arrived in 2018, the Singaporean led Chennai City to their maiden title triumph in 2018-19 season. The Spanish quadruple of Pedro Manzi, Roberto Eslava, Nestor Gordillo and Sandro Rodriguez was exceptional that season under his tutelage. Moreover, subsequently after the title victory, the coach also led them to the AFC Cup and are currently place second in the group E of the tournament.

"Akbar Nawas was instrumental in putting us on the Indian footballing map and we hope he joins us soon in the future and wish him the best," said Rohit Ramesh, owner, Chennai City Football Club.

ALSO READ: Mohammedan SC set to sign Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Fatau

The 44-year-old too expressed his thoughts after parting ways with the club. “My time with Chennai City Football Club has been a satisfying one professionally and personally,” said Akbar Nawas. “Together we achieved great things together. We won the I-League, qualified for the AFC Cup and produced players of the highest quality many of whom are now playing in the national team and in key clubs in the Indian Super League (ISL)."

"Unfortunately all good things have to come to an end. I will always carry my time with CCFC in my heart with great fondness. Lastly, I would like to thank the entire management team, the players and specially Rohit Ramesh — who’s guidance and assistance has been of utmost importance. The CCFC fans deserve a special mention. They are special,” he signed off.

The search for a replacement of Nawas has now begun at the club and it will be interesting to see who the former I-League champions entrust with the job.