Marti Cifuentes' Departure from QPR: A New Chapter in Championship Football
Explore the latest developments as QPR places manager Marti Cifuentes on gardening leave, with insights into the team's future and Cifuentes' potential move.

Queens Park Rangers (QPR) have officially placed their manager, Marti Cifuentes, on gardening leave, just days before the final match of the Championship season. This decision comes after a challenging season and a recent 5-0 defeat to Burnley, which left QPR in 15th place.
Interim Management: Assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm will take temporary charge of the first-team as they prepare for the upcoming match against Sunderland. This interim setup aims to stabilize the team during this transitional period.
Statement from QPR: QPR's chief executive, Christian Nourry, expressed disappointment over the situation but emphasized the club's commitment to resolving the matter swiftly. "This is naturally a disappointing situation for everyone concerned," Nourry stated. "We are working to ensure this matter is resolved as swiftly as possible so we can start preparations in earnest for the future."
Cifuentes' Reflections: Before the Burnley match, Cifuentes highlighted the importance of alignment between himself and the club. Post-match, he reiterated his commitment, stating, "I said before that as long as I'm wanted, I'm very happy."
Career at QPR: Cifuentes joined QPR in October 2023 from Swedish club Hammarby, replacing Gareth Ainsworth. Despite steering the team away from the bottom of the table with three crucial wins at the end of the last season, his tenure has been marked by inconsistency.
Future Prospects: Speculation about Cifuentes' future has been rife, with West Brom recently linked as a potential destination. This move could mark a new chapter for both Cifuentes and QPR as they navigate the complexities of Championship football.
Related Topics: The ongoing developments at QPR and Cifuentes' potential departure continue to be a focal point in the Championship, highlighting the dynamic nature of football management.