Luanda — The Portuguese Manuel Fernandes decided to quit as head coach of the "Atlético Sport Aviação" (ASA) football team and assumed commitment with "União de Leiria" (second division of Portugal).

Speaking to broadcasting sport radio 5 of the National Radio Station (RNA) from Portugal, the coach said his decision to leave the team has to do with difficulties encountered in accomplishment of the outlined objectives.

"I have submitted a three-year project to the club's leadership, the first two years were intended to form a capable team, whereas the third year is to fighting for the title, but the club's chairman was not sure that the second goal would be possible, citing difficulties facing the Angolan Air Firm "TAAG" - the sponsoring company of the club" - the coach explained.

According to him, he could return one day to Angola to lead a team for Girabola" championship. For this purpose, he said, he is interested to coach 1º de Agosto and Petro de Luanda, representing as potential candidates.

He also mentioned Benfica de Luanda, Recreativo do Libolo of Kwanza Sul province and ASA, should the situation change.

Manuel Fernandes stressed that he had received permission on Monday evening from TAAG's Managing Board to assume commitment with other teams interested in his services, after having made arrangements with Portuguese "União de Leiria" team.

On the other hand, he quoted the lack of his own house to accommodate his family as one of the reasons behind his decision to quit.

Manuel Fernandes started in 2007 coaching ASA, in replacement of his fellow countryman, Bernardino Pedroto (three time champion and winner of Angola's cup and super-cup for ASA).

ASA held the 7th place with 33 points in the national football championship of the first division, Girabola 2008, won by Petro de Luanda with 58.