Pepe Mel has called on the Real Betis supporters to back their new manager Juan Carlos Garrido.
Mel, who took charge of the club in 2010, was relieved of his duties on Monday evening after a poor start to the season left the Seville outfit bottom of the La Liga table.
"This is the press conference that I never wanted to hold," Realbetisbalompie.es quotes him as saying.
"I want to thank the president [Miguel Guillen] and many other people - I can certainly start by thanking every player Roberto, David and I have worked with since 2010. Thanks for all the work you've done with us.
"We've gone through bad times and had to overcome them but now, unfortunately, we could not resolve this situation. I would ask you all to show the new coach the same love you showed me. Thanks to everyone."
Garrido, who will take charge until the end of the season, led Villarreal into the Champions League in 2011.
Matt Law
