Bordalás bids farewell to Getafe

José Bordalás bids farewell to Getafe as Fabio Celestini emerges as the top candidate for the managerial role. Getafe president Ángel Torres extended a contract renewal until 2028 to Bordalás, who declined the offer after a challenging season affected by salary cap issues.

On January 9, Bordalás expressed his frustrations following a defeat against Real Sociedad, stating, "I don’t deserve what I am going through this season. I wouldn’t wish this on anyone." This statement marked the first time he showed signs of despair during his tenure amid the club’s ongoing financial troubles, especially with a lack of forwards available for selection. With a contract ending on June 30, Bordalás recognized he could not continue in his position as the club has struggled for years due to economic constraints, despite having received a renewal offer since last summer.

Bordalás’s personal rapport with Torres remained strong throughout the years; however, their professional relationship suffered due to the club’s financial challenges during his current spell. The coach had repeatedly stressed the urgent need for reinforcements throughout the season, describing this year’s team as inadequate: "We urgently need signings," he reiterated, despite being the most successful manager in Getafe's history. This season's discontent with his squad was particularly pronounced following the departures of key players Alderete and Uche, which he felt left the team lacking, especially in attack.

Bordalás never considered renewing for two additional years, even with Torres's continued overtures. Recently, he switched to a new representation agency, YouFirst, and is hopeful of securing a role abroad after what he described as his most deserving season at Getafe, which he called 'historic.' He has also been linked to a potential move to Crystal Palace.

In response to Bordalás's intent not to extend his contract, Getafe began seeking alternatives. Torres has kept an eye on Fabio Celestini, a familiar face who recently left his position at CSKA Moscow after winning titles with FC Basel, including the Swiss Super League. Celestini expressed a fondness for Getafe, stating, "It’s my home; I have affection for it," during an interview on Radio MARCA concerning the possibility of coaching the club. Although he had a year left on his Russian contract, the arrangement for him to part ways with CSKA has been facilitated, bringing him closer to a potential reunion with Getafe.

Another candidate on Torres's list is Veljko Paunovic, the Serbian national coach, who has a release clause that allows him to leave if approached by a club he feels emotionally connected to, like Getafe. His son, Petar, plays in Getafe’s youth system, adding another layer to Paunovic's potential move. Torres has expressed admiration for Paunovic, even suggesting that if he remains at Getafe, Paunovic would someday manage the team.