Albert Capellas has been relieved of his duties as coach of the Philippine national men’s football team.
Officials said the Philippine Football Federation has appointed his assistant Carles Cuadrat as the interim coach.
“My wonderful journey as head coach of the Philippine National Football Federation has come to an end,” said Capellas in a statement.
Capellas left the national squad after an eight-month stint, which included a historic first-ever semifinal victory in the ASEAN Championships, and a first victory over Thailand in five decades.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who have been part of it, especially the players and all the staff involved, the Director of National Teams Freddy Gonzalez, and the president John Gutierrez,” said Capellas.
Cuadrat brings with him to the team his vast experience, after having worked with the national teams of Saudi Arabia and El Salvador.
Aside from his national team duties, Cuadrat has coached top European clubs like Barcelona Youth, Galatasaray and Midtjylland.
Recently, Cuadrat steered East Bengal FC to their first trophy in over a decade in the Kalinga Super Cup finals in India.
As for Capellas, he is departing the team, after leading a triumphant start to the country’s Asian Cup Qualifying campaign with a 4-1 victory over Maldives at the New Clark City Stadium in March.
“Personal reasons have led to Albert’s departure. Out of great respect for him, we will not elaborate. We are grateful for his service, and wish him well. I continue to consider him friend,” said national Gonzalez.
