Nantes says coach Sergio Conceicao leaving to join Porto

NANTES, France (AP) French club Nantes says coach Sergio Conceicao has left to take charge of Portuguese side Porto.

The former Portugal winger worked wonders in his short spell with Nantes. When Conceicao took charge in December the club was languishing in 19th place, but it went on to finish seventh - just outside of a spot in the Europa League.

Eight-time French champion Nantes recently extended Conceicao's contract until 2020, but said in a statement Tuesday that it had failed to persuade him to stay.

''Sergio Conceicao made the directors of Nantes aware of his irreversible wish to join FC Porto, without delay,'' Nantes said. ''In order to properly prepare the 2017-18 season in the best conditions, Nantes had no choice but to accept.''

Nantes added that an agreement has been reached with Porto for Conceicao and his three assistants.

The 42-year-old Conceicao, who made 56 appearances for Portugal, played for Porto from 1996-98 and once again in 2004.

''I tried to give him all the means to continue the adventure here,'' Nantes president Waldemar Kita said. ''I wish him good luck.''

Nantes won the last of its eight titles in 2001.