BELGRADE (AFP)
Former Croatian international star Robert Prosinecki resigned as
coach of Serbian giants Red Star Belgrade on Monday, citing the
pressure of the job as the reason for his decision.
"It was my decision, I cannot do this anymore. I feel I cannot
lead the club because of the pressures, of everything,"
Prosinecki told journalists without elaborating.
His resignation comes just a day after Red Star were held to a
2-2 draw by capital rivals Rad Belgrade in their opening game of
the Serbian season, despite their opponents being reduced to ten
men after just 25 minutes.
Prosinecki, who played for the Red Star team that won the
European Cup in 1991 before going on to enjoy spells with Real
Madrid and Barcelona, had been in charge since December 2010.
His decision to step down comes just three days before Red Star
host French club Bordeaux in the first leg of their Europa League
play-off round tie.
"I feel bad because of the players because they have to face
Bordeaux and I know they need time to get a good result,"
Prosinecki said.
"But we will see results, this team deserves it and I think Red
Star will have opportunities and it will not be easy for
Bordeaux."
Local media said Prosinecki could be replaced by former Red Star
coach Aleksandar Jankovic, who is currently the coach of Serbia's
national under 21 side.
