GUANGZHOU, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- Dragan Stojkovic has stepped down from the coaching spot of Guangzhou R&F by mutual consent, the Chinese Super League (CSL) side confirmed here on Friday.

The R&F admitted it's "a tough decision," but the Guangzhou-based team also believed it's "a right time for a new chapter."

Stojkovic took over the team in 2015, following the Romanian Cosmin Contra's dismissal. In his five-season stay, the Serbian gradually instilled his fantastic play style in the R&F.

"We experienced a great journey with Mr. Stojkovic in the past five seasons, as the longest serving coach in our club, Dragan made us the most fascinating team in the CSL. Now we need to introduce the new coaching philosophy to boost our team," read a statement.

"The Club wants to say a special thank you to Dragan for his commitment during the years with us and wish him a better life in the future," the statement added.

It is also reported that Guangzhou R&F will name a new coach soon.