Pirates part ways with Leal
Orlando Pirates confirmed on Monday they had parted ways with Brazilian coach Julio Cesar Leal ahead of a scheduled disciplinary process that was to take place in the morning.
Leal has been on suspension following the club’s unconvincing 1-0 win against lower division side Ethekwini Coastal FC coupled with a string of uninspiring performances. When called to account, the Brazilian reportedly told his bosses to do what was right for the club as "he saw no way out." That led to an immediate suspension while the matter was being “investigated”.
"Orlando Pirates and head coach, Julio Cesar Leal (“the head coach”), this morning have parted ways following a meeting requested by the head coach’s agent, Nadim Mahmood, ahead of the hearing that was to be adjudicated by Zola Majavu," said the club in a statement.
The contents of the investigation will be kept away from the public eye, following an agreement between the two parties.
"The head coach requested that the details of the investigation not be disclosed as they were not tested in a hearing. The Orlando Pirates board of directors (“the board”) has accepted the parting of ways with the head coach which is with immediate effect.
"The board concurs that the statements collected as part of the investigation remain allegations as they were not tested in cross examination. The board is satisfied that the matter was handled in accordance with the club’s handbook which is incorporated into the head coach’s employment contract. The board wishes the coach success in his future endeavours," said Pirates.
Leal was not immediately available for comment but there is a strong indication that he will he heading back to his native Brazil.
