Manager Michel departs Girona after relegation, Ajax move imminent

Girona suffered relegation from LaLiga following a 1-1 draw with Elche at Estadi Montilivi, which confirmed a 19th-place finish and ended their four-year stint in Spain's top division.

Since taking charge in the summer of 2021, Míchel has been instrumental in the sporting development and the establishment of Girona FC's distinctive playing style, the club said in a statement on their website.

Supporters of Girona criticised Míchel, whose team failed to secure a victory in their final eight league fixtures, accusing him of being distracted by a potential switch to Ajax during a tense relegation fight.

During his tenure as head coach, he oversaw 221 official matches, establishing himself as one of the most significant managers in the club's recent history. In his debut season, he guided the team to a memorable promotion to LaLiga via the play-offs, culminating in a historic night in Tenerife for Girona supporters, the statement continued.

Míchel arrived at the Catalan club in 2021 and secured promotion to LaLiga in his very first campaign. In their second season in LaLiga, Míchel and Girona earned a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the first time. He was subsequently awarded the LaLiga Manager of the Season honour after this historic achievement with the Blanquivermells.

Míchel departs the club holding the record for the second-highest number of matches overseen in its history (221) and the second-most victories (91).

The 50-year-old, who was born in Madrid, previously managed Rayo Vallecano and Huesca following a 20-year playing career.

On the verge of agreement with Ajax

The announcement of Míchel's exit from Girona comes a day after reports emerged that he was nearing a full agreement with Eredivisie heavyweights Ajax.

ESPN reports that Ajax and Míchel are now discussing the finer points, chiefly the duration of the Spaniard's contract and the make-up of his coaching staff. Both sides are keen to finalise a complete agreement shortly.

The 50-year-old coach was also linked with a switch to Bayer Leverkusen, who reportedly rejected the move because of Míchel's "limited command of English."

An official statement from Ajax is anticipated shortly.