English Premier League club Middlesbrough have sacked manager Aitor Karanka, bringing an end to a fruitful three-and-a-half year reign.
Karanka, formerly an assistant of current Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho during his time at Real Madrid, was appointed midway through the 2013-’14 season. The 43-year-old helped the Yorkshire club back to the Premier League last year.
Boro have struggled this season, and currently lie in the relegation zone, three points above bottom-placed Sunderland with 11 games to go.
“Both parties have agreed that it is in the best interests of the club to make this change,” Middlesbrough said in a statement. “The club would like to thank Aitor for all his hard work over the past three and a half years and for the success we’ve had during that time. We wish him all the best for the future.”
“I’d like to thank Middlesbrough for a wonderful opportunity and the players, staff and all the people at the club who I have worked with,” Karanka said. “I’d also like to thank the fans for their support. This club will always hold a special place for me and I wish everyone connected with Middlesbrough Football Club the very best for the future.”
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