Thierry Henry resigns as Montreal coach

The coach of Montreal, former French international player Thierry Henry, announced on Thursday his decision to resign "for family reasons."

In a statement on his Twitter account, the now former coach of the Canadian team in the North American League stated that the past year has been especially difficult for him because "due to the global pandemic," he couldn't see his children and that the restrictions in North America will repeat the situation in the coming months.

"Separation is excessive pressure for both myself and my children. Therefore, it is with great sadness that I must make the decision to return to London and leave CF Montreal," added Henry.

In recent weeks, local media had indicated that Henry, 43, could leave his position and return to Europe.

The sports director of the Montreal team, Olivier Renard, stated: "Thierry's resignation is unfortunate and premature because it was very promising, but he confessed his desire to return to his family because the situation was and continues to be very difficult for both him and his family."

Renard also expressed his gratitude to Henry: "First, on a human level, he led his players by example last year by being away from his family, but also on a sports level, for what we have built together since his arrival."

Henry was appointed coach of Montreal, formerly known as Impact, in November 2019. Under his leadership, the Canadian team reached the MLS playoffs for the first time since 2016, with 8 wins, 13 losses, and 2 draws during the regular season.

In his time as the team's coach, Montreal also reached the quarter-finals of the Concacaf Champions League, the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football.

Montreal has had seven coaches since 2011, and none have been in the position for more than two seasons. EFE