ISL | Chennaiyin FC and Marco Materazzi part ways

“We thank Marco for three memorable seasons and wish him the very best for the future. He will forever be a Chennaiyin FC legend and is also guaranteed a place in ISL history. Marco will always be warmly welcomed back in Chennai and especially at the Marina Arena,” the Chennaiyin FC co-owners stated in a joint statement.

Under the guidance of the 2006 World Cup-winner, Chennaiyin reached the semi final of the inaugural season, while in 2015, they went one step further and defeated FC Goa in a controversial final to lift the trophy. However, in 2016, Chennaiyin finished seventh on the points table in the group stage as Materazzi’s men could muster only three wins in 14 matches.

The 43-year-old has expressed his gratitude for being provided the opportunity to contribute in shaping up India’s footballing future. He said, “These past three seasons with Chennaiyin has been a great adventure on a sports and human level. I leave the club today grateful to have been given the opportunity to contribute in my own modest way to the shaping of India as a football nation and most of all grateful to have lived firsthand the birth and growth of Chennaiyin FC. Incredible team, incredible fans, incredible India!”