Valencia Sacks Coach Pako Ayestaran

By Timothy Dehinbo

Pako Ayestaran has been sacked as Valencia manager less than six months after replacing Gary Neville at the Mestalla.

The 53-year-old, who was appointed as Neville's successor in March on a two-year deal, leaves the club bottom of La Liga and without a point after opening the new season with four straight defeats.

Former Valencia defender Voro Gonzalez will assume control of first-team affairs on an interim basis, having previously served as a caretaker manager on three separate occasions.

“After the meeting of the board of directors held today (Tuesday), Valencia football club has decided to relieve from office the coach Pako Ayestaran. The decision was made after analysing the current sporting situation and results,” a club statement on the website read.

“While the club finalises hiring a new coach, Voro Gonzalez will serve as coach of the first team on an interim basis but with full responsibility and confidence of the club.

Ayestaran replaced Gary Neville as Valencia boss in March
“Valencia football club wishes to thank the involvement, effort and professionalism of Pako Ayestaran and his coaching staff in his time at the helm. The club wishes all the best of luck for the future.”

Ayestaran won just three of his 13 matches during his short spell in charge of the Los Che.