Male' Maldives: Spanish coach Andrés García has officially brought an end to his tenure at Odi Sports Club following one of the most remarkable debut campaigns by a newly promoted club in Maldivian football history.
García, who was appointed shortly before the start of the 2025-26 Dhivehi Premier League season, leaves after guiding Odi SC to a runners-up finish in their first-ever season in the Maldives' top division and delivering the club's first major trophy through a memorable President's Cup triumph.
Despite entering the campaign as league newcomers, Odi quickly established themselves as genuine title contenders under García's leadership. The club finished second in the Dhivehi Premier League behind champions Maziya Sports & Recreation Club, exceeding expectations throughout the season.
Their finest moment came in the President's Cup final, where Odi defeated Maziya to lift the prestigious trophy and cap a historic season.
Another notable achievement during García's reign was Odi's record of defeating every top-flight team they faced during the campaign, a remarkable accomplishment for a club competing in the highest division for the first time.
The club's season eventually came to an end following a quarter-final defeat in the FA Cup, bringing the curtain down on a year that established Odi as one of the emerging forces in Maldivian football.
García arrived in Maldives with a strong coaching résumé and is regarded as one of the most accomplished coaches currently working in the domestic game. Holding a UEFA Pro Licence, he brought extensive coaching experience from both Europe and Asia and quickly transformed Odi into one of the league's most competitive sides.
In a farewell statement released after his departure, García reflected on the journey he shared with the club and its supporters.
"When we started this journey in August 2025, we never imagined that we could compete with the country's giants and make history," García said.
The Spaniard expressed gratitude to the club for making him feel part of the Odi family and described the campaign as the most rewarding of his coaching career.
"Thank you for everything you have given me this year. It has been the best season of my life and I have had a wonderful experience," he said.
"I will always be one more sailor, and I will support you wherever I am."
Although García's tenure lasted just one season, his impact on the club was immediate and significant. Under his leadership, Odi transformed from top-flight newcomers into genuine challengers for major honours, establishing new standards and setting a benchmark for future promoted teams in Maldivian football.
His departure closes a memorable chapter for both coach and club, but the achievements secured during the 2025-26 season ensure García's name will remain an important part of Odi Sports Club's history.
