Cambodian Premier League champions Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC have officially parted ways with three Brazilian players, as well as Spanish head coach Pep Munoz. The champion side will announce the man who will lead the squad in next year’s league at a formal ceremony in Phnom Penh.

In successive announcements on their official Facebook page on Thursday, the Svay Rieng-based club confirmed the end of contracts with striker Pablo Augusto, along with fellow Brazilians Breninho (also known as Breno Caetano) and Matheus Moresche.

Among the three, Breno received considerable attention from Cambodian fans. Although the No. 97 jersey holder only featured five times for Svay Rieng during their AFC Challenge League campaign, he impressed with his pace and skill, transitioning from defence to attack without diminishing in performance.

Breno was brought in by coach Munoz specifically for the AFC Challenge League campaign, with hopes of securing the club’s first-ever title in the third-tier Asian competition. However, those hopes faded when Svay Rieng lost 2–1 to FK Arkadag of Turkmenistan in the May 10 final.

The heartbreaking loss after 120 minutes of play was a painful night for fans of Svay Rieng and Cambodian football. Breno and his teammates were in tears after the match, a moment that deepened fans’ appreciation for his emotional investment in Cambodia. Many hoped he would continue playing for the club, but his journey has now come to an end.

Brazilian Svay Rieng players Pablo Augusto (from left), Gabi, Cristian Roque, Matheus Moresche and Breno Caetano, pictured together in the past. Svay Rieng FC

Breno later posted a heartfelt thank-you message to the entire Svay Rieng family, especially the fans, saying his short three-month stint in Cambodia had been life-changing.

“I experienced incredible things here and always gave my best on the pitch,” he wrote.

He also expressed gratitude to Munoz, who had shown great trust in him by offering the opportunity to join the team. Breno acknowledged the support, care and motivation he received from both teammates and fans, which drove him to keep pushing his limits.

“Thank you to all the fans. I have no words to express my gratitude for the love you gave me. You always supported me and brought me positive energy. Thank you for allowing me to be part of the Svay Rieng football family. I wish the club success, and I will continue to cheer from afar. I'm proud to have worn the Svay Rieng jersey,” added the 28-year-old.

Svay Rieng also ended its contract with Cambodian player Ny Sokry. However, the club announced the signing of forwards Cantha Chanteaka (formerly of Boeung Ket) and Sophal Dimong (formerly of Angkor Tiger) as reinforcements for the upcoming season.

The club will stage a June 3 press conference at the Sofitel Phnom Penh Phokeethra to officially name Munoz’s replacement. Speculation remains rife in the footballing community, with some convinced that assistant coach Matthew McConkey will get the nod to fill the large zapatos of the outgoing coach and others swearing that a big-name international signing is on the cards. Come Tuesday, the direction of the back-to-back premier league champions will become clearer.