Relegated LaLiga side Girona have confirmed the departure of manager Míchel, who is now being linked with a move to Dutch giants Ajax.

Girona were relegated from Spain’s top flight following a 1-1 draw with Elche at the Estadi Montilivi, confirming a 19th-place finish and ending their four-year stay in LaLiga.

In an official statement on their website, the club said: “Having taken charge in the summer of 2021, Míchel has been a key figure in the sporting growth and consolidation of Girona FC’s playing style.”

However, Girona fans had criticised the coach, whose team failed to win any of their final eight league matches, amid suggestions he was distracted by a possible move to Ajax during a tense relegation battle.

“Over his seasons in charge of the first team, he oversaw a total of 221 official matches, establishing himself as one of the most significant coaches in the club’s recent history. In his debut campaign, he guided the side to a memorable promotion to LaLiga via the play-offs, capped by a historic night in Tenerife that remains unforgettable for Girona supporters,” the statement added.

Míchel arrived at the Catalan club in 2021 and immediately delivered promotion to LaLiga in his first season. In his second top-flight campaign, he led Girona to an unprecedented qualification for the UEFA Champions League, marking a first in the club’s history. Following this landmark achievement, he was named LaLiga Manager of the Season.

He departs as the manager with the second-most games in Girona’s history (221) and the second-most victories (91). The Madrid-born 50-year-old previously coached Rayo Vallecano and Huesca after a 20-year playing career.

Close to agreement with Ajax

Míchel’s exit from Girona comes just a day after reports suggested he was nearing a full agreement with Eredivisie giants Ajax.

According to ESPN, negotiations between Ajax and Míchel are now focused on final details, including contract length and backroom staff composition, with both sides keen to finalise a deal soon.

The coach has also been linked with Bayer Leverkusen, although reports claimed the Bundesliga club moved away from the deal due to concerns over his “limited English language skills.”

An official announcement from Ajax is expected shortly.