Pep Clotet to step down as Birmingham manager at end of the season | Football

Pep Clotet will depart Birmingham City at the end of the season, the Championship club have announced.

The 43-year-old Spaniard joined the club two years ago as an assistant to then manager Garry Monk before being appointed caretaker manager and then, in December 2019, head coach. Birmingham are 16th in the Championship and are set to resume the season away at West Bromwich Albion. The EFL has set a provisional return date of 20 June.

“It’s been a really difficult decision to take because it’s a privilege to be part of the Blues family, but it’s the best step for everyone and it allows the club to continue to move forward with their vision and strategy,” Clotet said. “I’m very grateful to the club, its board and the supporters for placing their faith in me to lead the team this season and to face up to the challenges involved in what’s been a key transition under really demanding circumstances.

“It’s now time for us to focus on the remainder of the season and for the club to continue building on these foundations.”

Birmingham’s club’s chief executive officer, Dong Ran, said Clotet would continue to have the club’s “full backing” for the remainder of the season. He added: “We are all determined to do everything we can to finish the season strongly and give him the fitting send-off he deserves.”