Olympiacos has officially terminated its cooperation with legendary Italian coach Andrea Gardini, after a series of negative results led to a decision for a new course in the team's development. Greek media reported this today.

The decision comes just days after the elimination from SpanishGuaguas Las Palmas (ESP)– a team in which former Bulgarian national setterDobromir Dimitrovand one of the icons of world volleyballOsmany Juantorena. It is Guaguas that is set to faceLevskiin the decisive clash for entry into the Champions League group stage – a fact that further intensified the tension around the Greek giant.

In Greece, it is believed that the elimination by the Spaniards accelerated the process of Gardini's release, but the final blow came after the shocking loss toKalamata with a 2:3 set scorein the local championship – a result unacceptable for the club's ambitions.

Face-to-face meeting and decision by mutual agreement

Before the announcement of the parting, Gardini held a lengthy meeting with the Olympiacos management. According to club information, the conversation took place in a "completely positive and honest atmosphere", during which the following were analyzed:

• the current sports and technical situation

• the elimination by Guaguas

• the defeat by Kalamata

• the development and condition of the squad

Both sides reached a common conclusion that it is necessarynew pathand a different dynamic in the team's work. Thus, a decision was made to terminate the contract by mutual agreement.

Interim coach for the upcoming match

Following the parting, the management has entrusted the functions of head coach to Gardini's long-time assistant – Antonis Vourdiris.

Under his leadership, Olympiacos will face Foinikas Syrosin their next match from the Greek championship. Vourdiris is expected to lead the team temporarily until the club finalizes negotiations for a new coach.

photo: CEV