Jose Peseiro leaves Panathinaikos

Ex Sporting coach reaches amicable split with Greek club

Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro has left Greek side Panathinaikos following just one season in charge, after helping the club to Champions League qualification.

The former Sporting coach took over at the Olympic Stadium last summer, charged with the task of delivering silverware in what was Panathinaikos’ centenary year.

However, despite winning 20 of their 30 league matches, Pana ended the season trophyless in third place, although Peseiro’s men did secure the second Champions League qualifying slot through the end of season playoffs.

“I have reached an agreement with Panathinaikos for a friendly rescission. That is all I am going to say,” Peseiro announced after his side drew 1-1 with AEK Athens, to finish top of the six-team group competition which determined who would join champions Olympiakos in Europe’s premier club competition.

Fans unhappy

Although Pana finished just four points from the top of the Super League, a first knockout round elimination at the hands of Rangers in the Uefa Cup and a crushing 4-0 defeat to bitter rivals Olympiakos in the Greek Cup weakened Peseiro’s position, and the 48-year-old became a target of the supporters’ frustration.

Peseiro’s departure raises further doubts over the future at the club of Portuguese striker Helder Postiga, who was brought to the club in January on a loan deal from Porto, which expired this summer.