Owen Coyle Parts Ways with Chennaiyin FC After Underwhelming Second Stint

Indian Super League outfit Chennaiyin FC has confirmed the departure of head coach Owen Coyle, announcing on Thursday that both parties have mutually agreed to part ways. The club shared the news via Instagram, stating, “Chennaiyin FC and Head Coach Owen Coyle have mutually agreed to part ways. We thank Vaathi for his invaluable contributions to the club and wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”

The Scottish manager leaves the club following a mixed legacy, having returned to the Marina Machans for a second stint in 2023. His earlier spell in the 2019-20 season had been marked by a dramatic turnaround, as he inherited a struggling squad and guided them to a top-four finish in the league standings. Under his leadership, Chennaiyin reached the ISL Cup final that year, eventually falling 1-3 to Atletico de Kolkata.

Coyle’s impact during that first season had earned him admiration across Indian football circles. His tactical acumen and man-management had transformed Chennaiyin into serious contenders in a short span of time. The impressive run saw the club play an aggressive, front-foot style of football, bringing fans back into the fold after a poor start to that campaign.

However, his second tenure failed to reach the same heights. After returning to Chennaiyin following a successful spell with Jamshedpur FC—where he led them to the League Winners’ Shield in the 2021-22 season—expectations were high. But the team was unable to build consistent form, and results failed to mirror the success of his previous spells in the league.

Coyle’s departure now leaves Chennaiyin FC in search of a new direction as they look to regroup ahead of the upcoming ISL season. While no replacement has yet been announced, the club will likely aim for a fresh face to re-energize the side and recapture the momentum it once had under Coyle’s guidance.

Though his second innings did not meet expectations, Coyle’s legacy in Chennaiyin colours remains significant. His contribution to the club’s resurgence in 2019-20 remains one of the most memorable managerial feats in the club’s history.