Dylan Bettencourt
Alan Pardew has resigned from his role as manager of CSKA Sofia after bananas were thrown at the club’s black players.
The 60-year-old took over as manager of the Bulgarian side just 35 days ago.
CSKA lost the Bulgarian Cup final to their rivals last month and have been facing angry supporters ever since.
The side’s four black players were subject to vile racial abuse while having bananas thrown at them. The players initially refused to play but eventually agreed to step onto the pitch.
Pardew was previously the technical director of the club before taking on the role as head coach.
His assistant coach Alex Dyer also left his role at the club, he was the first black man to hold a coaching role at CSKA.
“The events before and after the match against Botev Plovdiv were unacceptable not only for me but also for my assistant Alex Dyer and for my players,” Pardew said in a statement.
“Our players decided to play out of loyalty towards the club.”
The former Newcastle United and Crystal Palace manager said the small group of racist fans who sabotaged their game are not the fans for whom he wants to coach.
“I express my gratitude towards all true CSKA fans for their support and passion,” he said.
He also thanked club owners Grisha and Dani Ganchev for their efforts to take the club forward despite all the challenges and circumstances.
“It’s been a privilege and honour to serve this great club. Unfortunately, my time here has come to an end,” Pardew concluded.
Image source: @EveningStandard
