Algerian club CR Belouizdad has parted ways with French manager Corentin Martins just four games into the season.
In an official statement, the club announced: “Following a board meeting with Corentin Martins, we have mutually agreed to terminate his contract.”
Martins was appointed at the start of the season on a one-year deal, succeeding Brazilian coach Marcos Paquetá, who had led the team to success in the Algerian Cup and a second-place finish in the league.
With high expectations, Belouizdad hoped to build on Paquetá’s achievements under Martins’ leadership; however, the Frenchman’s tenure got off to a poor start, with CR Belouizdad managing only three draws and one loss in their first four league matches.
As the team was sitting 13th in the standings with just three points, the club board was prompted to make an early decision to avoid further setbacks.
Despite the rough league form, Martins guided the reigning Algerian Cup champions to the group stage of the CAF Champions League, having eliminated Congolese side AC Léopards and Burkinabe club AS Douanes.
CR Belouizdad have been placed in Group C alongside reigning African champions Al Ahly, South African side Orlando Pirates, and Ivorian giants Stade d’Abidjan.