Birmingham boss Pep Clotet quits after demoralising home defeat

Pep Clotet TEAMtalk

Pep Clotet has left his position as Birmingham head coach after the club’s 3-1 home defeat to Swansea.

The 43-year-old was due to step down at the end of the season. But a 10th Championship match without a win brought his departure forward.

Birmingham are 17th in the table, four points above the relegation zone with four matches to play.

Clotet did not speak to the media after the loss to the Swans. His exit was announced just after 11pm.

A Birmingham statement read: “Pep Clotet has this evening left his position as head coach. He was due to step down at the season’s end. But it was mutually agreed that he should relinquish the role immediately.

“The board would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Pep for his efforts during the past two years.

“We will be making no further comment at this time.”

 

Solskjaer swerves Jude Bellingham speculation as boss talks Man Utd DNA

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has refused to comment on reports that Manchester United have missed out on the signing of Birmingham starlet Jude Bellingham.

The 16-year-old is one of English football’s most exciting talents after his stunning breakthrough season in the Championship.

He has made 38 appearances, chipping in with four goals including two match-winners in August and September.

Reports in January claimed Manchester United and Chelsea wanted to sign the teenager, though they failed to agree a deal.

More recently, however, United and Dortmund have tussled for Bellingham and ESPN now claims the German side have won the battle.

Solskjaer, however, refused to be drawn into speculation surrounding the teenager when questioned if United had missed out. Read more…