Goa, Dec 20 (IANS): Indian Super League franchise FC Goa on Monday announced that Juan Ferrando has stepped down as the head coach.

Speaking on Ferrando's departure, Director of Football FC Goa, Ravi Puskur said, "We're very disappointed to lose Juan. His decision to leave the club was rather unexpected and came as a surprise, particularly at this juncture of the season, where we are in the middle of the season."

"We're particularly disappointed that we were kept in the dark until yesterday morning where he communicated his desire to leave the club. However, once he stated his stance and the release clause was activated, we were left with little alternative. I wish Juan the best for his future," he said.

The club said that assistant coach Clifford Miranda will take interim charge of the first team.

Ferrando, in his only full season with FC Goa in 2020/21 guided the Gaurs to the semifinals of the Indian Super League. He was also in charge of the Club during their maiden and historic continental voyage in the AFC Champions League, where they finished third in Group E. The Club will make further announcements in due course.