Southampton have relieved manager Ralph Hasenhuttl of his duties following Sunday’s 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United which left the Saints in the Premier League relegation zone.
The Austrian coach leaves St Mary’s having spent just shy of four years in charge. He was only able to win just once in his final nine games as boss.
That victory, against south coast rivals AFC Bournemouth, was wedged between two draws to West Ham United and Arsenal at home. These results were followed by losses at the hands of Crystal Palace and the Magpies, which has prompted the club bosses to make a change in the dugout.
READ MORE:
-
Spurs v Liverpool: Slow starters stopped in their tracks by sublime Salah
-
Who could replace Ben Chilwell in England’s World Cup squad?
The former RB Leipzig boss leaves Southampton 18th in the league, the same position he inherited from his predecessor Mark Hughes, and just one point from safety.
During his tenure, the Saints finished 16th, 11th and then twice in 15th, while he also led them to the FA Cup semi-finals in 2021.
The 55-year-old was asked after the Newcastle defeat if he felt that he had took charge of his final match at the club, to which he replied: ““Do you know, I have taken a lot of decisions since I have been here. The good thing is this one I don’t have to take.”
In a statement released on Monday morning, Southampton confirmed that they had parted company with the Austrian and thanked him for his service.
It read: “Hasenhüttl, who was appointed in December 2018, departs having made a significant contribution to the club, overseeing some memorable results and also playing a key role in the development of our club infrastructure, identity and playing squad.
“However, we now believe it is an appropriate time to make a change.
“Everyone involved with the club would like to express their sincere thanks to Ralph for all of his efforts, as well as the unwavering commitment he has shown throughout his time as manager.”
The statement also revealed the plans for first-team affairs while the club searches for a suitable replacement.
“First Team Lead Coach Rubén Sellés will take charge of the side on an interim basis for our game on Wednesday night. The club will be announcing a permanent replacement in due course.
