Giovanni Tedesco steps down as Birkirkara coach

Stripes slip to 10th place after Naxxar defeat on Sunday.

Birkirkara’s disappointing defeat against Naxxar Lions was the final straw for Giovanni Tedesco who has decided to quit as coach of the Stripes, the club announced on Sunday evening.

“Birkirkara FC wishes to formally announce the resignation of Head Coach Mr. Giovanni Tedesco. The decision has been accepted by the club,” the statement said.

The club would like to express its sincere gratitude to Mr. Tedesco for his dedicated service to our club, notably during the previous season. Under his guidance, the team achieved a second-place finish in the BOV Premier League, securing a return to European football. Additionally, the team clinched the FA Trophy, marking our first major honour for a few years.”

The Stripes, winners of last season’s FA Trophy, are currently 10th in the 14-team Premier League with just 10 points in eight matches played.

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The Naxxar defeat was their second on the trot after falling to a 2-0 loss to Marsaxlokk just before the November international window.

“This season, the results witnessed a departure from the high standards set the previous season, with four defeats in the initial eight league matches,” the statement continued.

“In response to this situation, the club has initiated the recruitment process for a new coach. Further communications on this matter will be shared at a later stage.

We extend our appreciation to Mr. Tedesco and convey our best wishes for his future endeavors.”

This was Tedesco’s spell in charge of Birkirkara after taking over in May 2022 where he registered 22 wins from 40 matches while winning last season’s FA Trophy.