Passarella fired over Mexican gulf
MONTERREY, Mexico (Reuters) -- Former Argentina captain Daniel Passarella has been fired as coach of Mexican club Monterrey.
The decision came only six months after he took them to only the second championship title in their history.
Officials said in a statement that Passarella, who had been in charge for 18 months, had been sacked due to "sporting differences" and disagreements over the team for next year.
"Because of these differences, we have decided to dispense with the services of Mr Passarella," the statement added.
Mexican media said the gulf centered on new players whom 1978 World Cup winner Passarella wanted to sign to reinforce the team.
The club won the Clausura championship held in the first half of this year but failed to make the finals of the Apertura championship which finishes this weekend.
Monterrey was Passarella's first coaching job since he was sacked by Italian Serie A club Parma after just five league matches -- all defeats -- in late 2001.
Since coaching Argentina at the 1998 World Cup, the controversial coach, who famously banned long hair and ear-rings, has also coached Uruguay.
