Basel parts with coach Koller after Europa League exit

Days after losing in Europa League quarterfinals, Basel said Wednesday it is parting with coach Marcel Koller.

Basel said in a statement Koller would t have his contract renewed after completing Swiss Cup competition this month.

Basel is preparing for delayed domestic semifinal match after returning from Europa League tournament in Germany, where it lost to Shakhtar Donetsk 4-1 last week.

Later Wednesday, Basel said three players tested positive for COVID-19 and a fourth who had spent time with m was also self-isolating and would miss cup game next Tuesday.

Koller took over at Basel two years ago after a successful spell with Austrian national team, including qualifying for 2016 European Championship.

He arrived one year after Basel’s run of eight straight Swiss titles ended, and team slipped to a third-place finish last month behind defending champion Young Boys.

Basel gave details of who will replace Koller.

three virus cases were identified as Brazilian players Arthur Cabral and Eric Ramires, plus Eray Cömert of Switzerland. Basel said players had t traveled to a high-risk area during break from training. fourth player also in 10-day quarantine is Samuele Campo.

team begins Swiss league season on Sept. 20, days after Basel starts next Europa League in second qualifying round.

Im credits: AP