Laudrup takes leave of Mallorca

Michael Laudrup has parted company with RCD Mallorca a little over a year after replacing Gregorio Manzano as the Spanish club's coach.
 
The former Danish international was 14 months into a two-season deal with the Balearic islanders, who narrowly avoided relegation last term. Mallorca have won two and lost three of their opening five league encounters of 2011/12. "I have been thinking about this for some time," said the 47-year-old Laudrup, whose side were 17th in the 20-team Liga last season. "Since we won our last match and are in mid-table, this is the best moment for me to do this."

A European champion with FC Barcelona in 1992, Laudrup coached Brøndby IF, Getafe CF and FC Spartak Moskva before landing at Mallorca. He said of his departure: "It's been a pleasure working with the players here. I will miss everyone. I ask the fans to continue supporting the team – we need to be strong at home. We have won two out of three at home and while I'm not the coach any more, I'll continue to follow the team closely."