Jose Riga resigns as Charlton manager after final-day defeat
Saturday 7 May 2016 16:46, UK
Jose Riga announced his resignation as Charlton head coach moments after their season-ending 3-0 defeat by Burnley.
Riga made the announcement speaking to reporters after another day marred by protests aimed at Charlton's owners by the club's supporters at The Valley.
The Addicks had long since been relegated from the Sky Bet Championship, with fans previously staging a mock funeral for the club as a protest against Roland Duchatelet's stewardship.
Riga had returned to Charlton only four months ago, replacing interim boss Karel Fraeye, who had taken over from Guy Luzon in October.
Even though he informed his players of his decision immediately after the match, Riga revealed he had actually made up his mind "a few days ago".
The Belgian said: "It's not necessarily about going down to League One - and I am not a liar. I have taken this decision a few days ago. Even before that it was down to what I saw and could feel.
"Everybody can recognise my investment in Charlton the first time I was here and this time. It's not that I think I'm better than League One.
"You succeed in a season before the season when you have the right choices. But it's more than just about players - it's the club structure."
Riga denied he had another club lined up, adding: "There are good reasons for my decision.
"I never thought about another club. The only club in my mind was Charlton. But for me England is the place to be for football. We'll see what happens in the future.
"I've never had regrets about coming here."
