Raja Casablanca sack Paco Jemez after disappointing results in Botola Pro

Raja Casablanca have parted ways with Spanish coach Paco Jemez following a disappointing start to the season, with Sunday’s 2-0 defeat to RS Berkane proving to be his final match in charge.

The Moroccan giants announced the decision in an official statement on Monday, explaining that the move followed an assessment of the team’s results, performances and overall sporting development.

The club’s sporting committee and management concluded that a change in technical leadership was necessary to inject fresh momentum into the team and help them achieve their objectives.

Jemez’s departure brings an end to his brief spell at the Casablanca club, barely two months after his appointment on 31 August.

Poor results lead to Jemez’s departure

Raja struggled to find consistency under the Spanish tactician, collecting just six points from their opening five Botola Pro matches.

The Green Eagles recorded one victory, three draws and one defeat during that period, leaving them in 13th position in the league standings.

Their latest setback came on Sunday when they suffered a 2-0 defeat against RS Berkane, further increasing pressure on the coaching staff.

Jemez had already faced questions about his future following the draw against Hassania Agadir.

According to El Botola, the Spanish coach had requested another opportunity to improve the team’s performances during a meeting with club officials.

However, the defeat in Berkane ultimately preceded the club’s decision to end his tenure.

Spanish coach accepts responsibility

Following Sunday’s loss, Jemez apologised to Raja supporters and acknowledged that his team had failed to produce the performance expected of them.

At the post-match press conference, the former Rayo Vallecano coach accepted responsibility for the disappointing display and indicated that he was ready to respect whatever decision the club made regarding his future.

His departure ends a short managerial spell that began with expectations of improving Raja’s performances and competitiveness.

Jemez arrived in Casablanca with considerable coaching experience, having previously managed Rayo Vallecano, Granada, Las Palmas and Cruz Azul, among other clubs.

Raja face demanding fixtures ahead

Raja must now turn their attention to a busy schedule as they look to recover from their difficult start to the campaign.

The Green Eagles are scheduled to face AS FAR on Wednesday in a postponed league fixture, while preparations for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage also remain a priority.

The Moroccan side will be hoping that a change in technical leadership can help restore consistency as they pursue their domestic and continental ambitions.