Chennaiyin FC and Marco Materazzi have parted company earlier today by mutual consent.
The former World Cup winner was the head coach of Chennaiyin FC in the first three seasons of the Hero Indian Super League. He was player-manager in the first season, making seven appearances as a player, with Chennaiyin finishing top of the league standings before narrowly losing in the semis against Kerala Blasters.
Materazzi guided Chennaiyin to the title in the second season as the club dramatically came from behind to beat FC Goa 3-2 in the final.
A record-breaking five-game winning run was instrumental in that triumph as Materazzi inspired the players to fight on from the brink of elimination.
“We thank Marco for three memorable seasons and wish him the very best for the future. He will forever be a Chennaiyin FC legend and is also guaranteed a place in ISL history. Marco will always be warmly welcomed back in Chennai and especially at the Marina Arena,” the Chennaiyin FC co-owners stated in a joint statement.
Chennaiyin FC is already looking for a new head coach and will not make any further comment until an appointment is made.