Clermont Foot: "I hope this will not harm the cause of women in sport" (Helena Costa)

"I made my decision yesterday [23/06/2014] on my own, after a discussion with the president. Prior to this decision, I had done all of my work. I hope that this will not harm the cause of women in sport. I want you look at me as a manager. Only the president knows the reason for my decision," said Helena Costa (Portugal) on 24/06/2014, concerning her decision to not manage Clermont Foot 63 (Ligue 2) for the 2014-15 season.

On 07/05/2014, Clermont Foot announced the appointment of Costa as manager beginning in 2014-15. She would have been the first woman to lead a men's professional team in France.

"She is leaving with her secret, and without compensation. (...) There are small reasons, but nothing serious. I do not have regrets; we must accept it in looking to the future. The life of the club will continue," said Claude Michy, the president of Clermont Foot. "This is just a moment, even if it is a media sensation. The players are disappointed, because they were deprived of their adventure. They were ready to live differently."

"Olivier Chavanon, the club's technical adviser, will…