Alcaraz to quit Recreativo

'The best thing'
"This is the best thing for the club and will avoid any further speculation about the future," Alcaraz told a news conference in Huelva on Thursday.

Recently relegated
Recreativo were relegated from the Primera División last week but could still earn a place in next season's UEFA Cup if they beat Mallorca in the cup final on 28 June.

Cup heroics
The modest Andalusian outfit, who are the oldest club in Spain, knocked out Club Atlético de Madrid, Real Betis Balompié and Club Atlético Osasuna on their way to the final and are within 90 minutes of their first major trophy. "We hope to win that first title," Alcaraz said.

Up and down
Alcaraz was appointed Recreativo coach three years ago, and succeeded in steering the club into the First Division after just two seasons at the helm. Disappointment at the team's immediate return to the second division has been outweighed by delight at their success in the cup.

'Great future'
Recreativo president Francisco Mendoza paid tribute to Alcaraz, saying: "He has a great future ahead of him thanks to his professionalism and integrity. The door will always be open for him to return to Recre."