‘Football can sicken you’: Moyes knows game’s pain from his Sunderland exit
David Moyes' tenure as Sunderland manager ended with his resignation on May 22, 2017, following the club's relegation from the Premier League. The departure marked another difficult chapter in Moyes' career after previous short-lived stints at Manchester United and Real Sociedad.
Moyes, who succeeded Sam Allardyce in July 2016, was unable to prevent Sunderland's slide into the Championship, as the team finished at the bottom of the Premier League table with a mere 24 points. Their relegation concluded a decade-long stay in the top flight. Despite initial indications that he would stay, Moyes ultimately decided to leave his position at the Stadium of Light.
In a statement, Moyes expressed his gratitude to Sunderland chairman Ellis Short, the board, and the club's passionate supporters. He also wished the players and his successor well in their efforts to return to the Premier League. Short acknowledged Moyes' tireless efforts to avoid relegation and commended his decision to leave without compensation as a testament to his character.
Sunderland's disappointing season saw them sink into the bottom three in September and remain at the foot of the table from January. The team managed only six wins throughout the entire campaign. Moyes' dissatisfaction with the club's transfer dealings further contributed to the gloomy atmosphere.
His time at Sunderland was also marred by controversy when he was charged by the Football Association for making inappropriate comments to a female reporter.
Moyes' resignation meant that Sunderland were seeking their eighth manager in six years. Short stated that the club would take time for reflection before focusing on recruitment and preparations for the Championship season.
Moyes' departure from Sunderland came after similar short spells at Manchester United and Real Sociedad, tarnishing his reputation following a successful 11-year stint at Everton. Despite spending £30 million on players, his signings failed to make a significant impact. Privately, Moyes considered leaving the club as early as the previous autumn.
