Gilberto Silva has cut his role as Panathinaikos’ sporting director short the Greek Super League club has revealed.

The former Brazil captain was appointed to the position in mid-May under a three year contract, and leaves just after seven months with mutual consent.

“Panathinaikos FC and Gilberto Silva have come to an agreement to terminate their contract by mutual consent. During his time as sporting director he honoured the club by representing it,” a statement from the club read.

A key member of the 2002 World Cup-winning side, the 40-year-old has a history with the club having played three seasons with Panathinaikos from 2008 to 2011, totalling 119 matches.

“We say farewell to one of the greatest men of football to have ever been associated with our club. His status and the longevity of his relationship with Panathinaikos make him a permanent part of our history and this will never change,” they said.

“We wish Gilberto every success to his future endeavours, whatever they may be.” Reasons for his departure have yet to be revealed.

Meanwhile, Panathinaikos managed to escape elimination in the group stage of the Greek Cup right at the end of the round. The team scored three times in 10 minutes to win 4-3 and advance to the round of 16, also thank’s to OFI’s 2-1 victory over Iraklis.

However, Panathinaikos fell behind second-division Apollon 2-0 at half-time in the last group game on Thursday, while it needed to win causing the club’s fans to massively exit the Rizoupoli stadium in protest missing the second half of the game.