Chelsea legend Claude Makelele has explained why he left Greek side Asteras Tripolis after taking charge of just three games.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
- Makelele leaves Asteras Tripolis
- Only took charge of three games
- Reveals why he left the Greek side
| Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱 |
-
WHAT HAPPENED?
After taking charge of Asteras in mid-September, Makelele left his position with his new employers despite leading the side to a three-game undefeated streak. The Greek team drew its opening two matches under Makelele's leadership before defeating Kallithea 3-1 on the road. This game proved to be the France legend's last with the team because of disagreements with the club's ownership.
Advertisement
- AFP
THE BIGGER PICTURE
There was a reported philosophical difference between the club and Makelele, which led to his resignation, according to reports from the Greek publication EPT. The report also listed a lack of cohesiveness in the dressing area as a contributing issue. The Chelsea legend has now disclosed the reasons behind the swift decline in his relationship with the team.
- Getty
WHAT MAKELELE SAID
Speaking to London World, Makelele said: "I love the job, but I can’t accept when people interfere and tell me what I can or cannot do.
"They promised me full control of the team. It was (supposed to be) my decision who played or didn’t play.
"In the last game, they insisted a key player [Darnell Eric Bile] should be benched,' said Makelele.
"The player has a small amateur salary, but he’s the best player in the team. I brought him on for just 20 minutes – he got two assists, and we won the game.
"But they didn’t want him (to play). They thought they could control whether he plays because he hadn’t signed a (new) contract. I used him because of his quality."
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
-
WHAT NEXT FOR MAKELELE?
As per London World, the French legend has already invited interest from a number of clubs over a potential move immediately after his exit from the French side.