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Bergodi stands down at Rapid

Italian trainer Cristiano Bergodi has finally resigned as FC Rapid Bucureşti's head coach, despite his players as well as club officials wanting him to stay in Romania.

Rapid's Vladimir Božović tussles with Dominik Reinhardt during last week's UEFA Cup tie
Rapid's Vladimir Božović tussles with Dominik Reinhardt during last week's UEFA Cup tie ©Getty Images

Cristiano Bergodi has finally resigned as FC Rapid Bucureşti coach, having initially said he would step down on Thursday following the Romanian side's failure to reach the UEFA Cup group stage.

Unbeaten start
Speaking at a media conference after Rapid drew 2-2 at home to 1. FC Nürnberg in their first round match – sending the visitors though on away goals following a scoreless first leg in Germany – Bergodi said he had decided to quit and that his decision was final. However, having consulted his players, the 42-year-old Italian elected to stay on and was in the dugout as Rapid defeated FC Farul Constanta 2-0 yesterday.

Rednic link
There has been another twist today, though, with general secretary Cristian Costache revealing that the coach had put his resignation in writing to general director Constantin Zotta on Saturday. Zotta had not made this public as he hoped Bergodi would change his mind, but to no avail. Mircea Rednic is reported to be favourite to take over at Rapid, who are unbeaten this season.