Head coach Jardim leaves Newport by mutual consent

Nelson Jardim previously spent two spells on the coaching staff at Swansea City

Head coach Nelson Jardim has left Newport County by mutual consent after just under a season in charge of the League Two club.

The 46-year-old Portuguese coach took up the role on an initial one-year deal last summer.

"I have known Nelson for 15 years and we have always been open and honest with each other,'' said chairman Huw Jenkins.

"He felt that it was best for him and the club to move on with just two games left and our league status now secure."

Jardim hinted to BBC Sport Wales last week that he was considering his future at the Exiles, with his wife and young children still living in Portugal.

"When we started everything, it suited me and it suited the club to have a one-year contract," Jardim said.

"The changes were for the club and for me as well, I have a young family and we need to assess everything.

"We didn't change the plan. That conversation has to come at the end of the season, I've always felt confident with that and since the start, I have given my life to the club, 24 hours, seven days a week."

Newport say the decision was made at a meeting with the club's chairman Jenkins after Monday's goalless draw at home to Walsall.

With two games remaining Newport are 20th in League Two on 49 points, eight above the relegation zone.

"I can't thank Nelson enough for his hard work, commitment and loyalty, especially as he left his young family in Portugal to take on the role," added Jenkins, who completed a takeover of the club in January 2024.

"He took on a tough challenge with lots of changes at the club from a squad overhaul to the way we operate and work.

"His main goal was to keep the club in League Two during a season of transition so that we can start building for the future. It took us longer than we probably wanted, but he feels that with the job completed then it was time for him to look for a new challenge.

"Having taken on board his thoughts and the timing, it also allows us the space to reflect and plan over the final two games and the summer to appoint a replacement as quickly as possible."

Jardim took charge of the club following the departure of Graham Coughlan in June 2024 with Jenkins promising a "new direction" for the club.

The Exiles then signed 17 new players during last summer's transfer window, while Jenkins is now looking to make his second managerial appointment in the coming months.

"It's been a difficult season at times, but considering all the experience we have gained over the last 12 months then I believe there is a clear understanding of what we need to move us forward as a team and a club," said Jenkins.

"We will be looking to bring in the right manager or head coach to build on those last 12 months so we can start the season strongly; move the club forward and challenge for the top part of League Two."

The club say they will update supporters on the management team to lead Saturdays' fixture at Fleetwood "in due course".