Michael Beale has resigned as manager of Zulte Waregem after just six months in charge, following a run of six consecutive league defeats that left the club 14th in the Belgian Pro League, only four points above the relegation zone.
Short tenure and promising start
Beale made his managerial comeback with Zulte Waregem in the summer, more than two years after being sacked by Sunderland. The 46-year-old made a promising start to the campaign, leading the club on a five-game unbeaten run and reaching the last 16 of the Belgian Cup.
However, after a collapse in form and weeks of discussions with the hierarchy, Beale decided to walk away.
Reasons behind the resignation
Record Sport understands Beale's decision comes down to a misalignment with the club's leadership over ambitions, direction and long-term vision. Behind the scenes, Beale had also grown concerned about the club's decision-making, with a lack of consultation and involvement in recruitment and sales.
After a 4-1 weekend loss to Sint-Truidense, the former QPR boss decided to cut ties with the Belgians.
Prior comments on future
The resignation comes just days after Steven Gerrard's former right-hand man at Ibrox admitted he would ponder his future over the international break.
He said: “I will sit down with the board during the international break and we will put our heads together.
“Will I still be here when we return for our next match? A lot depends on how the discussions go.
“Last summer, we made a decision to concentrate on young players, but we have to accept that this group now needs help. We can’t deny we are in trouble.”
