Floriana FC are reportedly set to part company with head coach Daniel Portela following talks between the Portuguese tactician and the club’s hierarchy on Thursday.
The two parties are understood to have reached an agreement that ending their association would be in their mutual interests, although the club has yet to issue an official announcement.
The development follows growing tension at the club in the wake of last Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Balzan.
Floriana president Johann Said publicly expressed his surprise at Portela’s decision to leave Malta international midfielder Paul Mbong out of the starting line-up during an appearance on the television programme L-Argument.
Said subsequently confirmed that he intended to hold discussions with the coach over the situation, with those talks now reportedly leading to the decision to separate.
Portela took charge of Floriana at the beginning of last season and enjoyed considerable success during his tenure.
The Portuguese coach guided the Greens to a record 27th league championship last May, when they defeated Marsaxlokk in the Finalissima to secure the title.
Despite that achievement, recent developments appear to have brought his spell at the club to an abrupt conclusion.
Assistant coach Jean Paul Desira is expected to take temporary charge of the first team while Floriana consider their options for a permanent replacement.
The anticipated managerial change comes at a particularly important stage of the Malta Premier League Opening Phase.
Floriana currently occupy second place in the standings with 14 points, just two behind leaders Valletta and four ahead of seventh-placed Balzan and Birkirkara.
The Greens face three crucial fixtures over the coming days as they seek to secure their place in the Top Six.
They meet Mosta on Sunday before taking on Birkirkara on October 22 and Żabbar St Patrick on October 26.
With the race for qualification entering a decisive stage, Floriana will be hoping that the uncertainty surrounding their technical leadership does not affect their performances on the pitch.
An official announcement regarding Portela’s departure is expected once the necessary arrangements have been finalised.
Sports Editor
Veteran Journalist
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