Football

Sevilla FC has announced the departure of head coach Quique Sanchez Flores at the end of the season. The decision comes after a disappointing campaign that has seen the club languish in 12th place in La Liga.Sanchez Flores was appointed in December 2022, with Sevilla battling relegation in 16th place. While he managed to steer the team away from the drop zone, their performances have remained inconsistent.Sevilla president Jose Maria del Nido Carrasco praised Sanchez Flores' efforts in turning around the club's fortunes, but acknowledged that the results have not been satisfactory. "He achieved an objective that, although it hurts us to say it, was difficult," del Nido said.The club has also confirmed that captain Jesus Navas will leave at the end of the season. The 38-year-old defender has been a loyal servant to Sevilla, making a record 593 appearances for the club.Navas had previously expressed his disappointment at not receiving a contract extension offer from Sevilla. However, del Nido has now offered him a lifetime contract, allowing him to remain with the club in a non-playing capacity."If I sit down with Jesus for a minute, we will turn the situation around," del Nido said. "From here, I offer him a lifetime contract so he can play here as long as he likes, and later work here in whatever he wants, because he deserves to be at Sevilla as long as he wants."Sevilla's disappointing season has raised questions about the club's future direction. The club has struggled to maintain its status as a top-flight contender in recent years, and the departure of Sanchez Flores and Navas could signal a period of transition.