Barclays Women’s Championship leaders London City Lionesses have announced the shock departure of head coach Melissa Phillips.
FAWSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from London City Lionesses this evening.
Phillips has opted to take up the position of first team assistant coach at American National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Angel City. Phillips leaves The Pride in an excellent position, the club are top of the table and are well-placed to win promotion to the Barclays Women’s Super League.
In summer 2020, Phillips arrived at London City Lionesses as an assistant for former boss Lisa Fallon. Fallon’s reign was short-lived with Phillips filling the club’s managerial vacancy in October 2020. She guided The Pride to a sixth-place finish in 2020/2021 before the club ended the 2021/2022 campaign as runners-up. The progression has continued this year with London City Lionesses topping the table.
After opting to leave London City Lionesses, Phillips said “It is with great sadness and sincerity that I am stepping down from the
position as head coach at London City. I am so grateful for the board entrusting me with their vision over the past few years. It has been a journey from the inception of the club to where we are now and I’m so incredibly proud of every person, players and staff, who have contributed to the successes along the way.
“Personally, and professionally, I feel it is right for me to pursue opportunities back home. This has been an incredibly tough decision and one I haven’t taken lightly. However, I feel the staff, players and processes we have in place are so strong that they will continue to keep the club on the current trajectory.
“I have so much care and respect for every person at London City. With such strong vision and values, I know the Club can establish itself to be a successful Women’s Super League entity and serve the women’s game for years to come.”
Nikita Runnacles will step up as interim head coach at London City Lionesses until an appointment is made.