Queens Park Rangers (QPR) head coach Marti Cifuentes has officially left the Championship club. The 42-year-old was placed on gardening leave following the Hoops' final home game of the season, a 5-0 defeat against Burnley in April. It is understood that former Rennes and Strasbourg head coach Julien Stephan will take over as the new boss.

Cifuentes' Tenure at QPR

Marti Cifuentes replaced Gareth Ainsworth at Loftus Road in October 2023, with the club second from bottom in the Championship. Despite the challenging circumstances, Cifuentes managed to steer QPR clear of relegation, securing an 18th-placed finish in his first season. A memorable 4-0 win at home to Leeds United was a highlight of his tenure.

Challenges and Achievements

This season, QPR struggled initially, recording just two victories in their opening 16 league games. However, a 2-0 win in Cardiff marked a turning point, leading to a run of 10 wins in 18 matches that lifted them to 11th place. Despite these efforts, injuries to key players like Jake Clarke-Salter, Ilias Chair, and Jack Colback, as well as the absence of strikers Michael Frey and Zan Celar, hampered the team's consistency.

The Final Curtain

QPR's form dipped again towards the end of the season, with only two wins in Cifuentes' last 12 matches in charge. The 5-0 defeat at home to Burnley in the penultimate game of the season proved to be the final straw. Cifuentes bid farewell to the fans in a lap of honour, marking a painful end to his time at the club.

Looking Ahead

Assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm took charge on the last day of the season, leading QPR to a 1-0 victory at Sunderland. As the club moves forward, they will look to build on the foundation laid by Cifuentes and aim for a more successful campaign under new leadership.

Conclusion

Marti Cifuentes' departure from QPR marks the end of a challenging yet impactful chapter for the club. As they prepare for the future, the focus will be on stability and progress in the Championship.