Fleet Call Time On Kutrieb's Stay As The German Departs

The German, who took the club to the National League South title last term, has left with the club struggling against an instant return.

Saturday’s 1-0 loss against relegation rivals Oxford City provoked a boardroom decision and the club hope to have a new man in place before this weekend’s live TNT Sport match against Oldham Athletic.

Fleet sit fourth from bottom and had won two of their last four matches. But the manner of the loss at Oxford saw Kutrieb depart.

A statement read: “Ebbsfleet United have today announced the decision to part company with manager Dennis Kutrieb and first-team coach Chris Franks.

“The difficult decision comes following the defeat on Saturday to Oxford City – and heading into a crucial final three months of the Vanarama National League campaign, the club’s number-one priority is to maintain our status in the division after the memorable title win and promotion that Dennis and Chris delivered in 2022/23.

“Such decisions are never easy to make, especially off the back of such a remarkable and record-breaking previous season, but the status of the football club must always take priority and be foremost when making these big decisions.

“Unfortunately, our form and results in 2023/24 have not reflected the sheer hard work and determination with which Dennis and Chris have approached every single minute of their time at Ebbsfleet United and the club has reached the difficult decision to part ways.

“Under the stewardship of Dennis and Chris, the club won its fifth league title, broke numerous records in doing so, reached the Emirates FA Cup First and Second Rounds, qualified for a promotion final and earned plaudits for the type of football on show – we cannot thank them enough for their service in their three-plus years at the Kuflink Stadium and we wish them all the very best in their future careers.”