RB Salzburg’s dismal first half of the season has led to the departure of manager Pepijn Lijnders. The Dutch coach’s six-month tenure ended Monday, despite guiding the team to the Champions League group stage.
Lijnders began with promise, securing three consecutive league wins. However, a dismal run of four wins in 13 matches followed, leaving Salzburg fifth in the standings. Recent victories, including a 3-0 triumph over Austria Klagenfurt, couldn’t save Lijnders.
Lijnders joined Salzburg in May, leaving Liverpool after nearly a decade. Ajax, Besiktas, Porto, and Stoke City had expressed interest. His 2018 managerial debut at NEC Nijmegen lasted five months.
“Qualification for the Champions League was a plus, but unsatisfactory performances followed,” RB Salzburg said. “We’re 10 points off the Bundesliga top.”
Salzburg faces Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid in January, having lost five of six Champions League games. Their poor performance has relegated them to 32nd in the standings.
“We’re intensively seeking a new coach,” the club stated. “Our goal is to appoint someone by January 3.”
