Yokohama F. Marinos made a surprising decision by sacking head coach Steve Holland just eight days before their crucial AFC Champions League quarter-final clash against Al Nassr.

On Wednesday night, Yokohama lost 3-2 at home to Shimizu S-Pulse in the J1 League. This defeat proved to be the final straw for the club’s management. Yokohama, who reached the AFC Champions League quarter-finals, are struggling domestically, dropping to 19th place in the 20-team J1 League after the loss.

Steve Holland, 54, took charge of Yokohama in December. He is best known as Gareth Southgate’s assistant with the England national team, having helped reach the Euro 2020 and Euro 2024 finals. Holland also worked as a coach at Chelsea and previously managed Crewe Alexandra.

Yokohama announced that Patrick Kisnorbo will take over as interim head coach following Holland’s dismissal. Kisnorbo resigned from Melbourne Victory in Australia last December and joined Yokohama as Holland’s assistant.

Yokohama faces a tough match against Urawa Red Diamonds in the J1 League this Sunday. They have failed to win their last six league games, raising questions over whether Holland’s dismissal can turn their fortunes around.

Yokohama will then travel to Saudi Arabia for another challenging match against Al Nassr and Cristiano Ronaldo in the AFC Champions League quarter-finals—their only remaining hope this season. The Japanese club reached last year’s AFC Champions League final but lost to Al Ain of the UAE. They hope to redeem themselves this season.