Eintracht Frankfurt part ways with head coach Albert Riera
Eintracht Frankfurt have parted ways with head coach Albert Riera following Saturday’s final-day draw with VfB Stuttgart.
Riera, 44, was appointed in January on the back of Frankfurt’s inconsistent start to the season under Dino Toppmöller, but the Spaniard has been unable to secure a top-seven Bundesliga finish.
The result against Stuttgart means Eintracht have missed out on Europe for the first time since the 2020/21 season, with Freiburg beating the Eagles to seventh spot and a place in next season’s UEFA Conference League.
"Following in-depth talks, we have mutually decided to terminate our working relationship with immediate effect," explained Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krösche.
"Albert Riera took charge of the team during a difficult period and dedicated himself to Eintracht Frankfurt with great diligence and commitment. Through their meticulous work, Albert and his team have also provided us with valuable insights, for which we would like to express our sincere thanks.
"At the same time, following an open and honest review of our sporting progress, we have come to the conclusion that we wish to take a different direction for the coming season. We wish Albert Riera, Pablo Remon Arteta and Lorenzo Dolcetti all the best for their personal and professional futures."
Former Olympia Ljubljana, Celje and Bordeaux boss Riera won only four of his 14 Bundesliga games in charge of Frankfurt, drawing five and losing five.
The Eagles were seventh - and two points clear of Freiburg - after Matchday 29, but they end the season in eighth place after picking up only one point from their final five fixtures.
"The club and I have mutually agreed to part ways. As coach, I take full responsibility for the team’s results, and my sole focus during this time has been on improving the team and making it successful. I felt I had to protect the club and the players, and I would do exactly the same again in a heartbeat," Riera said.
"I was convinced that this was necessary in order to focus entirely on sporting success. Personal interests played no part in my decision. My goal was, is, and always will be the same: to develop the players and achieve success. I am grateful to have been part of Eintracht Frankfurt's history, and I wish the club all the best for the future."
