A-League: Ivan Franjic leaves Perth as coach Tony Popovic also reportedly parts way with Glory

Ex-Socceroo Ivan Franjic has farewelled the Glory, while Perth coach Tony Popovic seems headed for Greece.

Former Socceroo Ivan Franjic has parted ways with Perth Glory amid reports that coach Tony Popovic has also left the club,

While the majority of the Glory squad returned to Perth on Thursday after the club’s A-League finals series exit on Wednesday night, Franjic flew to his home state of Victoria and later confirmed his time with the club was over.

“I’m just going to enjoy some time in Melbourne with my girlfriend and family, and see what happens,” three-time A-League championship-winning right-back Franjic said when asked where he would be playing his football next season.

“I’d be lying to you if I said I knew.”

https://twitter.com/Franjic5/status/1298876029847482377

The news comes as Popovic reportedly also bid farewell to the Glory to take over the coaching reins of Greek team Xanthi FC.

That’s despite the former Western Sydney Wanderers coach having a year left on his Glory coaching contract.

A Glory spokesman said Popovic was still Perth’s coach, while Franjic – who made 53 A-League appearances for the Glory in two seasons – was unsure of the coach’s future plans.

In another A-League departure, Albanian midfielder Migjen Basha has left Melbourne Victory.

Basha said he was returning to Europe for family reasons.

“I have really enjoyed my time living in Melbourne, but I have made the decision to go back to Europe,” said Basha, who scored one goal in 25 A-League appearances

“This is the best solution for me and my family moving forward. I would like to wish the players and the club all the best for next season.”

Originally published as A-League: Ivan Franjic leaves Perth as coach Tony Popovic also reportedly parts way with Glory