Manager Michel leaves Al Qadsiah

Al Qadsiah have parted company with manager Michel.

The Real Madrid great, who led the ambitious Al Khober club into the 2024-25 Roshn Saudi League, leaves after two years on the east coast.

Last season, Michel guided Al Qadsiah to a fourth-placed finish on their return to the RSL for the first time in four years, while they reached the King’s Cup final, where they were beaten by newly anointed Saudi champions Al Ittihad.

At present, Al Qadsiah sit fifth in the 2025-26 table after nine rounds. Their next league match takes place at home against Damac on December 27.

In a statement released on Sunday, Al Qadsiah said: “Al Qadsiah club has confirmed today that it has agreed to part ways with men's football head coach Michel Gonzalez.

“This decision follows a planned review process led by the club's executive management and board of directors, focused on ensuring the continued progression of the team in alignment with the club's broader long-term ambitions and strategic objectives.

"Al Qadsiah's board of directors would like to take this opportunity to express its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Michel Gonzalez and his staff for their professionalism, dedication, and valuable contributions throughout his tenure.

“Michel will always be regarded as part of the Al Qadsiah family, and everyone connected with the club will fondly remember the promotion to the Saudi Pro League and the achievement of reaching the King's Cup final.

“The club wishes him every success in the next chapter of his career. The club is now moving swiftly to appoint a new men's football head coach and ensure a smooth transition. A further update will be provided imminently.”

Michel is the third manager to leave the RSL this season, after Al Ittihad parted company with Laurent Blanc and Al Riyadh let go Javier Calleja.