South Africa’s Orlando Pirates’ German coach Josef Zinnbauer has thrown in the towel, two days after the Soweto club’s exit from the MTN8.

The Soweto club confirmed in a statement that Zinnbauer had tendered his resignation.

Zinnbauer is quoted thanking Pirates chairman Irvin Khoza for having granted him the opportunity to manage the team.

“I would like to thank the Chairman and management for the opportunity they have given me. Unfortunately, my time at the Club has come to an end. I have enjoyed my time here and would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the supporters,” Zinnbauer told the club’s website.

“I have spent the last two years away from my family and for this reason I have decided to hand in my resignation. I would like to wish the Club and its supporters all the best for the future.”

In his last game in charge, Pirates exited the MTN8 after losing 2-1 to Swallows on Saturday.

The German posted 35 wins, 20 draws and 13 losses in his 68 matches while managing Pirates. 

Additionally, the coach won the MTN8 last December after beating 10-man Bloemfontein Celtic FC 2-1.

The club has since wished “Mr Zinnbauer all the best in his future endeavours.”

Pirates did not announce his replacement but recently brought on board former Lamontville Golden Arrows head coach Mandla Ncikazi.

His arrival at Pirates seemed to spell doom for the German considering that the club finished on third place with 52 points, seven points behind eventual champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the league last season.