Chelsea legend quits after just three games in charge, hits out at club for meddling in team selection

Chelsea legend Claude Makelele has explained why he left Greek club Asteras Tripolis after just three games in charge.

Having taken charge of Asteras in mid-September, Makelele left his position with his new employers despite leading the team on a three-match unbeaten run. The Greek side drew their opening two games under Makelele's guidance before beating Kallithea 3-1 away from home. That match proved to be the French legend's last with the team, following a disagreement with the club's owners.

According to Greek publication EPT, there was a philosophical difference between the club and Makelele that led to his resignation. The report also cited a lack of unity in the dressing room as a contributing factor. The Chelsea legend has now revealed the reasons behind the rapid decline in his relationship with the team.

Speaking to London World, Makelele said: "I love the job, but I can’t accept when people interfere and tell me what I can or cannot do.

"They promised me full control of the team. It was (supposed to be) my decision who played or didn’t play.

"In the last game, they insisted a key player [Darnell Eric Bile] should be benched,' said Makelele.

"The player has a small amateur salary, but he’s the best player in the team. I brought him on for just 20 minutes – he got two assists, and we won the game.

"But they didn’t want him (to play). They thought they could control whether he plays because he hadn’t signed a (new) contract. I used him because of his quality."

As per London World, the French legend has already invited interest from a number of clubs over a potential move immediately after his exit from the French side.