Full Breakdown
Girona Coach Míchel Sánchez Departs After Relegation
5/29/2026, 4:45:52 AM
Relegation and Coach's Exit
Girona announced on Thursday that head coach Míchel Sánchez will not continue with the club after the team’s relegation from La Liga. The decision followed a 1-1 home draw with Elche, a result that would have secured survival had Girona won. The Catalan club’s statement confirmed Sánchez’s departure and praised his conduct.
Season of Surprise: Rise and Fall
Sánchez joined Girona in 2021, guiding the side to promotion from the Segunda División. In the 2023-24 season the club shocked European football by leading the La Liga table as late as January and ultimately finishing third behind Real Madrid and Barcelona. Girona also made its Champions League debut, finishing 33rd of 36 teams.
Key Figures
- Míchel Sánchez – 50-year-old head coach, departing after relegation.
- Savinho – Girona’s star forward in 2023-24, transferred to parent club Manchester City.
- City Football Group – Abu Dhabi-backed owners of Girona.
- Ajax – Dutch club reportedly in talks with Sánchez for a future role.
Timeline of the 2023-24 Campaign
- 2021 – Sánchez appointed head coach; Girona promoted to La Liga.
- January 2024 – Girona tops La Liga standings for the first time.
- Late 2023-24 season – Girona finishes third in La Liga; qualifies for Champions League.
- Champions League group stage – Girona placed 33rd of 36.
- Early May 2024 – 1-1 draw with Elche; relegation confirmed.
- Thursday, May 2024 – Club announces Sánchez will not continue.
Performance Data
Implications for Girona and City Football Group
Sánchez’s departure follows a season in which Girona, owned by the Abu Dhabi-backed City Football Group, finished third in La Liga and debuted in the Champions League, before being relegated. The club’s recent achievements, including the transfer of forward Savinho to Manchester City, contrast with the current setback.
Official Statements & Responses
Girona’s official communication highlighted Sánchez’s “humane, approachable, and respectful manner” toward members, fans, management, and staff. The statement confirmed the termination of his contract without detailing the club’s future coaching plan.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Dutch media have reported that Sánchez is in discussions with Ajax, but no club has confirmed the talks. The club has not disclosed its criteria for selecting a replacement coach, nor provided a detailed analysis of the factors leading to relegation beyond on-field results.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
Sánchez is reportedly exploring a role at Ajax, while Girona prepares for a campaign in the Segunda División. The club has not disclosed its plan for a replacement coach.
