Corinthians confirm exit of Mano Menezes

Sao Paulo, Dec 7 (IANS) Corinthians have confirmed the departure of former Brazil football coach Mano Menezes.

The 52-year-old leaves the club after guiding the Corinthians to fourth place in Brazil's Serie A following a 1-2 defeat against Criciuma in Saturday's final match of the season, reported Xinhua.

The result secured the team a berth in next season's Copa Libertadores - South America's top club competition.

"If I were to stay another year I would offer him a new contract," Corinthians' president Mario Gobbi told a press conference.

"But I won't be the president and I can't sign another contract. That's a part of football."

Gobbi said he had spoken to each of the club's presidential candidates and none had wanted Menezes to remain coach.

Appointed in December 2013, Menezes led the Sao Paulo club to 19 wins, 12 draws and seven losses in Brazil's top flight this season.

Among the favourites to replace him are former Corinthians manager Tite and ex-Santos and Botafogo boss Oswaldo de Oliveira.