Argentine coach Sampaoli parts ways with Atletico Mineiro

RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- Argentine manager Jorge Sampaoli has resigned after a year in charge of Brazil's Atletico Mineiro.

The 60-year-old said Atletico's final match of the Brazilian Serie A season against Palmeiras on Thursday would be his last in charge of the club.

"I want to thank the whole club: the players for their dedication, all the employees for giving their souls to this project, the directors for giving us great conditions to work and to the city for treating us so well," the former Argentina and Chile head coach said in a social media post.

"[Atletico] are destined to challenge for great things. I know that triumphs will occur. I love you very much and I wish you to continue walking with your heart as your guide," he added.

Sampaoli, whose contract with Atletico Mineiro had been due to expire in December this year, has reportedly accepted an offer to join Olympique Marseille.

Atletico are currently third in Brazil's 20-team top flight standings, six points behind leaders Flamengo. Enditem