Ħamrun Spartans part ways with coach Giacomo Modica

Ħamrun Spartans have parted ways with coach Giacomo Modica, the Premier League club have announced.

Modica had steered the Spartans to an historic qualification to the League Phase of the UEFA Conference League last season, but failed to steer the team to any domestic honour.

The decision comes somewhat unexpectedly, given that the Premier League side are currently stepping up their preparations for the UEFA Conference League qualifier against NK Runavik, of the Faroe Islands, next month.

President Joseph Portelli had hinted last month that Modica would take charge of the team’s pre-season preparations but cast doubt whether he would stick with the Italian coach throughout the season.

“Hamrun Spartans Football Club would like to inform its members and supporters that the club has parted ways with Head Coach Giacomo Modica by mutual consent,” the club said in a statement signed by CEO Marcel Bonnici.

“We announce this decision with immense pain and disappointment.

“Coach Modica will always be remembered for the historic achievement of leading the Club to the Group Phase of the UEFA Conference League campaign – a first in Maltese football history.

“The club sincerely thanks him for his dedication and services during his tenure and wishes him the very best in his future endeavours.”

The Spartans will surely step up their search for a new head coach as they only have two weeks before their first qualifying round clash against Runavik, with the opening leg scheduled for July 9.