Thierry Henry steps down as Montreal coach due to family reasons

Arsenal icon will return to London to be closer with his children

Thierry Henry has stepped down as Montreal coach (Getty Images)

Thierry Henry has stepped down as coach of Major League Soccer side Montreal for family reasons.

The former France international was heavily linked with the Bournemouth job earlier this month before interim boss Jonathan Woodgate was given the role until the end of the Championship season.

“It is with heavy heart that I’m writing this message,” the former Arsenal and Barcelona forward posted on Instagram. “The last year has been an extremely difficult one for me personally. Due to the worldwide pandemic I was unable to see my children.

“Unfortunately due to the ongoing restrictions and the fact we will have to relocate to the US again for several months (at least) will be no different.

“The separation is too big of a strain for me and my kids. Therefore it is with much sadness that I must take the decision to return to London and leave CF Montreal.”

Montreal was Henry’s second job as head coach, having spent just over a year at Ligue 1 side Monaco from 2018. He signed a two-year contract with the Canadian club in November 2019.

Montreal sports director Olivier Renard said: “Thierry’s departure is unfortunate and premature because it was very promising.

“I would like to thank him, first of all in human terms, because he showed the example last year by being away from his family, but also in sporting terms for what we have built together upon his arrival.”

PA