Konyaspor sack Riza Calimbay

The Anatolian Eagle have shown Calimbay the exit door despite satisfactory results on the pitch.

Konyaspor have terminated Riza Calimbay’s contract with immediate effect. The Super Lig outfit’s administration have made the abrupt decision despite the Turkish coach guiding the club to a 2-0 win over Ankaragucu in the last round of Super Lig action.

The club made the announcement on their official website with a brief statement.

“Our board of directors have decided not to continue with Riza Calimbay after our meeting with him. He is one of the most important, experienced coaches of the Super Lig and has made important contributions to our club. We thank him for his services.”

The experienced coach leaves the club in 9th position with 17 points amid his abrupt and unexpected departure.

Speaking to local reporters, Riza said the club’s reason was “strange”.

“They called me when I was in Istanbul the other day and so I left for Konya. Initially, I thought there was an issue with the players or something along those lines. But they told me they wanted to part ways.

When I asked for the reason they said I was a “mismatch for the city”. I didn’t understand what they meant or what they were referring to. That’s it,” he revealed.

He explained how he felt he was done wrong by the club.

“They asked me to agree to the compensation settlement but I didn’t agree. Why would I? I’m not leaving the club at the bottom of the table. We were doing well. I didn’t ask to leave. I haven’t done anything bad or had problems with anyone. I was solely focused on my job,” he said.

The 55-year-old pointed out his success with his previous clubs including his time with Antalyaspor and Trabzonspor in recent seasons.