Delhi Dynamos FC have announced that they have parted ways with head coach Miguel Angel Portugal by mutual consent. The Spaniard who joined the Hero Indian Super League (ISL) side in the summer of 2017 will now embark on a new journey with Segunda División side Granada CF. In their official statement, the club have announced that Portugal has left on good terms and also took the opportunity to thank him for his contributions throughout the season.

Despite the Dynamos finishing in eighth place during the 2017-18 season of the Hero ISL, Portugal’s side will be remembered for the refreshing brand of football they displayed on the pitch. Spearheaded by Kalu Uche, Delhi Dynamos were one of the most potent attacking sides, scoring a total of 27 goals throughout their campaign – the fifth highest in the league. The Dynamos also racked up 8703 passes, a stark reminder of their ability to spray the ball around with confidence and ease.

Delhi Dynamos had kicked off the fourth season with a hard-fought victory over FC Pune City. However things soon turned for the worse as they lost the next six games on the trot. With only two victories from the first 10 matches, the Dynamos found themselves rock-bottom of the table. Injury lay-offs and poor defensive organisation were the primary reasons for their downfall.

The new year resulted in a change of fortunes for the side from the capital. The return of Kalu Uche allowed Portugal the freedom to impose his preferred style of play as the Dynamos remained unbeaten in eight of the 11 games played in 2018, scoring 22 goals in the process.

This late resurgence, however, proved to be too little too late as Delhi could not make the play-offs. The Hero Super Cup that ensued was the final chance for Portugal to salvage something from a relatively disappointing season. But his side failed to cross their first hurdle as they succumbed to Hero I-League side Churchill Brothers in the qualifiers.

In his farewell statement, Portugal thanked the fans who supported the Delhi side through the long season: “I had a very memorable time here in Delhi Dynamos and in the Hero ISL. The club showed great belief in my abilities this season and even though we didn’t win the trophy, the fans were happy with the way we played football and that makes me happy. I am thankful to all the supporters who showed such love for me and the whole staff the entire season.”

The club has also announced that they are on the lookout for a replacement before the next season gets underway.