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Odisha FC in Crisis: CEO Exits Days After Head Coach's Surprise Departure

Odisha FC is undergoing major leadership changes with CEO Raj Athwal stepping down just four days after the club parted ways with head coach Sergio Lobera. The club confirmed Athwal's departure in an official statement, acknowledging his role in securing the Super Cup and Indian Women's League titles. Interim administrative arrangements have been made with General Manager Ravi Khedar serving as the primary contact during the transition period. These back-to-back high-profile exits come as the club awaits clarity on league proceedings before announcing a new head coach.

Key Points: Odisha FC CEO Raj Athwal Steps Down After Sergio Lobera Exit

  • CEO exit follows coach departure
  • Super Cup & IWL triumphs under tenure
  • Interim GM appointed during transition
  • Club awaits league clarity for new coach
2 min read

Odisha FC CEO Raj Athwal steps down days after head coach Sergio Lobera's exit

Odisha FC faces leadership crisis as CEO Raj Athwal resigns days after head coach Sergio Lobera's departure. Club announces interim management amid transition.

"Having known and worked with Raj for 5 years, I'm sad to see him go. - Owner Rohan Sharma"

New Delhi, Dec 30

Top domestic football club, Odisha FC, is undergoing a period of transition at the top, with CEO Raj Athwal stepping down from his role just four days after the club mutually parted ways with head coach Sergio Lobera.

The club confirmed Athwal's departure in an official statement, noting that the decision was communicated by the CEO and accepted by the management.

"Odisha FC can confirm that CEO Raj Athwal has informed the club management of his decision to move on, and the club has accepted the same. The club would like to thank Raj for his leadership, professionalism, and contributions during his tenure with the club.

"Under his stewardship, Odisha FC secured its first-ever silverware with the Super Cup triumph, followed by the Indian Women's League 2023-24 and achieved qualification for the AFC competition knockout stages by both the men's & women's teams of Odisha FC," the statement, shared on X, read.

The club also outlined interim administrative arrangements as it navigates the transition period.

"As we move forward and await further clarity regarding the league, our General Manager, Ravi Khedar, will serve as the primary Point of Contact (POC) for all club communications and matters during this transition period," the statement added.

Reacting to Athwal's exit, club owner Rohan Sharma expressed his appreciation for the outgoing CEO's contributions over the past five years.

"Having known and worked with Raj for 5 years, I'm sad to see him go. I know he will always be a well-wisher for the club. He knows he's always welcome back, and I wish him nothing but the best for him and his family," Sharma said.

Athwal's departure comes shortly after Odisha FC announced the end of their association with head coach Lobera on December 26, with both parties agreeing to part ways.

"Odisha FC and Head Coach Sergio Lobera have mutually agreed to part ways. The Club would like to thank Coach Sergio for his dedication, professionalism, and contributions during his tenure with the Club. We wish Sergio the very best for his future endeavours. The club is waiting for clarity on the league and will make an announcement regarding the new head coach accordingly," the club had stated.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As a football fan, it's sad to see this happen. Raj Athwal's tenure was actually quite successful with the silverware. The statement from the owner seems genuine, but fans deserve more transparency about what's happening behind the scenes.
V
Vikram M
Big changes at the Kalinga! 🏆 First Lobera, now Athwal. They brought us our first major trophy. The club must act fast to appoint strong replacements. The women's team's success under his watch should not be forgotten. All the best to both gentlemen.
R
Rohit P
Something feels off. "Mutually agreed to part ways" for both top positions within days? Sounds like there might be internal issues or a shift in vision from the owners. Hope this doesn't derail the progress the club has made.
P
Priya S
Thank you, Mr. Athwal, for your service. The Super Cup victory is a memory we will always cherish. Wishing you the best for your future. Now, the management's next moves are crucial. The fans are watching.
M
Michael C
Transition periods are tough in sports. The key will be how smoothly Ravi Khedar handles the interim role. The club's statement about "waiting for clarity regarding the league" is interesting. Maybe bigger ISL structural changes are coming?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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