John Terry has left his role at Aston Villa to pursue his dream of becoming a manager.
Terry leave his role as Villa assistant manager
The former Chelsea and England defender joined Villa boss Dean Smith’s coaching staff in October 2018. He helped Smith guide Villa to Premier League promotion in 2019.
Terry said: “It has always been my ambition to move into football management and, providing the right opportunity presents itself, I feel ready to take up such a challenge.”
“It was an extremely difficult decision to move on” and added: “I want to be as respectful to the manager and everyone at Aston Villa as I can. Having given my future serious consideration over the summer, I don’t feel it is fair to move into a new season without being certain of seeing that through.
He joined Dean coaching staff in October 2018
“My immediate plan is to spend some quality time with my family and, thereafter, hopefully take up some invitations to visit clubs and managers around Europe to develop my aim and objective of becoming a manager.”
Terry was linked with Bournemouth and Celtic in February
Smith said: “I’m disappointed to lose John as part of my coaching staff but fully understand and respect his decision.
“John has played a huge role in the success the club has enjoyed over the past few years and has been very supportive of myself throughout that period.
“I have no doubts he will go on to be a first-class manager in his own right and wish him well for the future.”