Antonio Lopez Habas has been removed as head coach of Indian Super League side ATK Mohun Bagan after a string of four winless games that left the team in sixth with six points in the 2021-22 ISL standings.
The Spaniard, who was the first manager in ISL to win the title twice, has been under pressure after their star-studded side slipped to bottom half following their four-match winless steak — the latest being a 3-3 draw against an under-performing Bengaluru FC.
Manuel Cascallana, Habas’ assistant, will be the interim coach.
“ATKMB has released Antonio Habas as the head coach for ATK Mohun Bagan. Manuel Cascallana, who is currently the Assistant Coach, will be the interim Coach," ATKMB said in a statement.
Thank you for everything, Antonio Habas. We will remain grateful for your immense contributions! 💚♥️#ATKMohunBagan #JoyMohunBagan #AmraSobujMaroon pic.twitter.com/bCFjvPKIaO— ATK Mohun Bagan FC (@atkmohunbaganfc) December 18, 2021
Known to put up a balanced outfit both in attack and defence, the team has been struggling, especially after the departure of their centre back Sandesh Jhingan, who has left for Croatian club, Sibenik. Injury to star Spanish defender Tiri has further compounded their misery as they have leaked 13 goals already from six matches.
Habas had coached the erstwhile Atletico de Kolkata to the inaugural title in 2014, defeating Kerala Blasters in the final. Under Habas, ATK made a last-four finish the next season.
Habas returned for his second stint in 2019 and guided them to their second title, becoming the first manager to lift the coveted trophy twice.
(With inputs from Agencies)
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