"Ricardo has already agreed with the Ismaili board not to see out the remainder of his contract," agent Ahmed Abbas told FilGoal.com.

"He will terminate his contract by mutual consent even if Ismaili won the league title."

Ricardo, whose contract is due to expire in June 2010, is on course to win the Egyptian Premier League in his first season in Ismailia, one week before the end.

The Dervishes are level on points with bitter rivals Ahli and a play-off tie is on the cards.

Atmosphere

Abbas revealed that the state of managerial instability inside the club is the main reason behind Ricardo's decision to quit.

"Despite guiding Ismaili to compete for the league title until the final day, the atmosphere inside the club is not helping Ricardo," the agent added.

"Salaries are usually delayed because of the club's poor financial status, that’s why Ricardo's assistants left before."

Abbas also claimed that his client has received offers from a number of Arab clubs, including Ahli Jeddah, Sfaxien, Ittihad Tripoli and UAE'S Wehda.

He also denied that Ricardo was approached by Ahli, who will see coach Manuel Jose leave by the end of May.