Skocic walks out of Tractor job
Croatian head coach Dragan Skocic has parted ways with Persian Gulf Pro League champions Tractor, the Iranian top-flight club announced on Tuesday.
The decision came on the morning of Tractor’s final league-phase fixture in the AFC Champions League Elite against Al Gharafa in Qatar, sent shockwaves through the club’s vast fanbase.
“Following the match against Al Sadd [on February 10], Dragan Skocic submitted a request to the club’s management to terminate his contract. Despite opposition from club officials, multiple meetings, and their insistence on continuing the cooperation, he remained firm in his decision,” the club said in a statement.
“Ultimately, on Tuesday morning, the two sides signed a mutual agreement formally terminating his contract.
“Skocic leaves as the most decorated coach in the club’s history, having won two major trophies and secured his place in Tractor’s record books.
“Tractor Football Club extends its gratitude to Mr. Skocic for his efforts and wishes him success in his future professional endeavors.”
The club did not elaborate on the reasons behind the Croatian’s departure.
Skocic guided Tractor to its maiden domestic league title last season and lifted the Super Cup in August, thanks to a 2-1 victory over Esteghlal in the season curtain-raiser.
Tractor is second in a tightly contested league table with 35 points from 20 matches, one point behind Golgohar with a game in hand, and level on points with Sepahan and Esteghlal.
The Tabriz-based side has also impressed in the league stage of Asia’s premier club competition, securing a place in the round of 16 with two matches to spare.
However, local media have reported tensions between Skocic and several senior players – notably club captain Shoja Khalilzadeh – following last week’s 2-0 defeat to Al Sadd, which may have contributed to his decision to leave.
Former Zob Ahan and Mes Rafsanjan head coach Mohammad Rabiei has been reported as a leading candidate to replace Skocic.