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Queens Park Rangers have been thrown into last-minute disarray ahead of their season finale against Sunderland, as head coach Marti Cifuentes has been placed on gardening leave following serious interest from West Bromwich Albion.
The managerial shake-up comes after West Brom surprisingly dismissed Tony Mowbray last week and swiftly identified Cifuentes—who has earned praise for his work at Loftus Road—as a leading candidate to take the reins. Talks have reportedly taken place between Cifuentes’ representatives and the Baggies, prompting QPR to act swiftly by removing the Spaniard from his duties ahead of their final Championship fixture.
In an official club statement, QPR confirmed that assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm will assume interim control of the first team as they prepare to face Sunderland. Chief executive Christian Nourry acknowledged the disruption, stating: “This is naturally a disappointing situation for everyone concerned… we’re working to resolve this swiftly and begin preparations for the future.”
Cifuentes, who took charge in October 2023 with QPR languishing at the foot of the table, made an immediate impact by steering the club to safety in his debut season. His efforts attracted attention from Sunderland last summer during their own managerial search, although he opted to stay in west London and signed a long-term deal in September. That contract means West Brom will need to pay compensation if they proceed with an appointment.
Despite guiding QPR clear of relegation again this term, results have dipped lately, with the club sitting 15th and having managed just two wins in their last 12 matches. A 5-0 thrashing at the hands of Burnley last weekend proved to be a final tipping point, though Cifuentes defended his team’s season and expressed pride in their survival.
Speaking after that heavy defeat, he remarked: “It doesn’t define what this team has done this season… I always want to improve, and I have a contract. I enjoy my job here.”
Meanwhile, Sunderland will look to take advantage of the uncertainty in QPR’s camp as they aim to snap a four-game losing streak and build momentum heading into the play-offs.
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