Less than two days after Newcastle Jets owner Nathan Tinkler sacked assistant coach Clayton Zane, goalkeeper coach Neil Young and strength and conditioning coach Andrew Packer, Bridges decided his time at the club was over after also playing for the Jets more than 60 times since 2009.
"We thank Michael for his contribution to the club as both a player and a coach and everyone at the club wishes him the best for the future," Tinkler was quoted saying in a brief statement released by the Jets confirming the resignation of Bridges.
"We have the utmost respect for Michael and respect his decision but it is unfortunate he will not be involved in taking the club forward."
The latest departure leaves embattled coach Phil Stubbins and physio Justin Doherty as those to have surived the backroom upheaval.
Hear from Zane here about his sudden exit
Professional Footballers Australia CEO Adam Vivian is now in Newcastle to support captain Kew Jaliens, David Carney, Adrian Madaschi, Joel Griffiths and Billy Celeski, all of whom were sensationally sacked by Newcastle on Wednesday night.
Vivian said due process had not been followed and that the five players were still legally contracted to the club and protected by the A-League's collective bargaining agreement (CBA).
As talk of Football Federation Australia revoking Tinkler's licence and taking over the club due to unpaid debts rage on, the club owner resolved to settle the issues but baulked at committing to meeting the 31 January deadline set by the governing body.
In a statement of defiance, Tinkler told The World Game on Thursday: "Is there also a deadline for me getting my $5 million back from the FFA. Is that a deadline too?
"That would be good. That would really help. FFA is at me for about $500,000, and I am at them for $5 million.
"If they want to set a deadline to resolve those two issues, then I will be more than happy to resolve it by Saturday."
Tinkler has also said that the process to appoint a CEO is progressing after Robbie Middleby and Chairman Ray Baartz both resigned earlier this month.
