Lokomotiv Moscow coach Gisdol resigns over Russia's invasion of Ukraine

Lokomotiv Moscow's head coach Markus Gisdol has stepped down from his position over his opposition to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Gisdol had been in charge of the Russian club since October of last year, but felt unable to continue to work in Russia after the country started the war in Ukraine. He explained that the war not only went against his personal values, but that he couldn't focus on football while the Ukrainian people suffered Russian bombing and attacks.

"Being a football coach is the best job in the world, but I can't do that job in a country whose leader has invaded another country in the middle of Europe," Gisdol told Bild.

"That does not go together with my values and I have, therefore, resigned as manager of Lokomotiv Moscow with immediate effect.

"I can't stand at the training ground in Moscow and coach the players, ask them to be professional, when a few kilometres away there are orders given that brings suffering to the people of a whole country.

"This is my personal decision and I am absolutely convinced it is the right one."

Lokomotiv Moscow claim Gisdol has been sacked

The official line from Lokomotiv Moscow, however, is a different one, with the club claiming that Gisdol has been sacked in a short statement, announcing that Marvin Compper will lead the team for their upcoming games.

"Markus Gisdol was dismissed from the post of head coach of Lokomotiv," read a statement on Lokomotiv Moscow's website.

"Marvin Kompper has been named acting head coach. He will prepare the team for the upcoming matches in the Russian Cup, as well as in the Russian Premier League."

The Moscow club is owned by Russian Railways, which is currently subject to sanctions by the US.

Russia's football teams have already been kicked out of Europe and their national team suspended from FIFA and UEFA competitions. Some other players and coaches have also left the country, along with Gisdol.