Olympiacos dismisses coach José Luis Mendilibar

Olympiacos has announced the departure of head coach José Luis Mendilibar, ending a highly successful tenure that included winning the UEFA Conference League in 2024, a domestic double, and a Super Cup. The decision, which comes while Mendilibar still had a contract until 2027, has been described by Spanish media as a “great surprise” and an “abrupt decision.”

In addition to the coaching change, the Greek club is reportedly preparing for the departure of sporting director Darko Kovačević. The club is expected to undergo a significant restructuring, with Antonio Cordón, the former football director at Sevilla, expected to lead the new project, with Imanol Alguacil potentially serving as the successor.

New signing Gustavo Puerta provided insight into the sudden nature of the transition, claiming that Mendilibar had promised to build the team around him. Puerta stated that on the very day of his arrival in Greece, he encountered the coach at a hotel as Mendilibar was leaving with his luggage after being dismissed.