FORMER Worcester Warriors coach Omar Mouneimne has left his role at Bristol Bears a week before the final game of the season.

Mouneimne, who joined Warriors as Defence and Kicking Strategy Coach in 2017, had been with Bristol since 2020 as defence coach and helped the Bears to a maiden Challenge Cup title and a first-placed finish in the Gallagher Premiership in 2021.

The news comes just eight days before Bristol's final game of the season against Sale Sharks.

The timing of his departure raises eyebrows and also comes three weeks after The Daily Telegraph published a story reporting senior players at Bristol had confronted the coach, alleging he was behind the use of a Twitter ‘burner’ account called “GrindRugby”.

The account, which has now been deleted, was criticising director of rugby Pat Lam for the lack of time given to defence in training.

Mouneimne has strenuously denied any involvement and has been in the coaching box at Bristol since the accusations came to light.

Mouneimne said: "I’m proud to have been able to play my role in the Bears journey and there have been many highlights along the way, including major silverware and conceding the second fewest points and tries last season.

"I’d like to thank the players and staff for my time in the West Country and making me and my family so welcome. I’m excited about what lies ahead and I’m relishing the next challenge that awaits."