Esteghlal hit back at Pitso Mosimane after his unceremonious exit: 'Fan dissatisfaction over poor performances & likelihood of contract not being renewed played role in his decision'

Pitso Mosimane was appointed the Esteghlal coach late in October when the team was struggling to get positive results.

The South African had it rough initially, failing to inspire the Blue Boys to victory.

But at some point, he managed to go for nine games without tasting defeat.

The relationship between the two parties took a wrong turn when Esteghlal failed to honour their part of the deal.

The two-time AFC Champions League winners failed to pay the technical team as agreed and were given an ultimatum.

Mosimane was forced to walk away a couple of days ago.

However, Esteghlal are claiming Mosimane was already planning to leave the team because he had not delivered as anticipated.

“Esteghlal has fulfilled all its financial obligations to Mosimane. The club has fully honoured all contractual payments to Mr. Mosimane,” the club said in a statement.

“The remaining $81 000 (R1.5 million) was settled on [Wednesday night], exactly one day after a new bank account was opened in Dubai, using international financial channels.

“It is evident that such a small outstanding amount in a long-term contract was not the real reason behind his sudden departure.

“Instead, factors such as fan dissatisfaction over poor performances, the rejection of several transfer requests in the winter window, and the likelihood of his contract not being renewed at the end of the season may have played a role in his decision," Esteghlal stated.

Esteghlal feel Mosimane wasn't the right person for them, and hiring him was a mistake.

For Mosimane, he is now in the market hoping to find a better team to coach in the coming days.