Claude Makelele, a great figure at Chelsea, has quit as manager of Asteras Tripolis after only three games, despite taking the team to an unblemished record. The Frenchman quit his role after leading the Greeks to two draws and a 3-1 victory over Kallithea. His resignation followed a disagreement with the club’s owners over team selection and other matters.
Makelele took over at Asteras in mid-September, and despite a promising start, his relationship with the club gradually deteriorated. According to Greek media EPT, the main reason for his leaving was a philosophical difference with the club’s leadership, notably interference in his team selection decisions.
Additional Issues
The report also noted issues in the locker room, alleging a lack of teamwork among the players, which hindered Makelele’s function. The club’s ownership is said to have undercut Makelele’s authority, prompting him to resign barely weeks into his job.
Makelele has since revealed that conflicts with the club’s leadership played a significant role in his decision to quit. Despite his limited stint, his quick resignation reveals deeper concerns of control and ideology between the manager and the club’s leadership.