#INSERT type:image caption:Helena Costa was appointed Clermont Foot coach in May. END#
Helena Costa has decided to step down from her role as coach of Clermont Foot after being appointed in May.
Costa, 36, became the first woman to take charge of a professional football team in France following her arrival at the Ligue 2 outfit last month.
However, the club announced on Monday that the Portuguese, who had been in charge of Iran's women's national team since 2012, has decided to resign from her role.
Clermont president Claude Michy said in an official statement : "Helena Costa has decided not to honour her commitments with Clermont Foot 63.
"Helena Costa therefore will not assume the role of coach of the club for the coming season.
"This decision was sudden and surprising. I deeply regret this situation. I thank all those who have supported me and I am most grateful.
"The operations of the club will continue with other stakeholders to prepare for the new season."
Costa won the Regional Lisbon League with male side Cheleirense in 2006 and she has a good track record in the women's game, having won two Portuguese titles with Sociedade Uniao 1 Dezembro and winning promotion with Odivelas.