Sevilla sacks manager Berizzo for poor run of form
ANDER GILLENEA / AFP / Getty
Sevilla made a change to its coaching staff Friday, dismissing manager Eduardo Berizzo due to the team’s poor recent form and confirming talks to formalize a new hire after the holiday break.
Berizzo’s dismissal follows a four-match winless run, but also coincides with his battle with prostate cancer. The club confirmed Berizzo’s diagnosis Nov. 22, news that helped motivate the team to a turnaround result against Liverpool as Sevilla battled back from 3-0 down to secure a 3-3 draw in Champions League play.
“Sevilla FC would like to express its gratitude to Berizzo for his professionalism, the work he has delivered and the treatment of all the members of the club since his arrival. A new manager is expected to join after the winter break,” said the club. https://t.co/QdfJzXOpRy
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) December 22, 2017
One week later, assistant Ernesto Marcucci stepped in to deputise for his boss, who was set to undergo surgery. The club confirmed soon after that Berizzo’s operation had been “successful,” and he returned to the touchline for a 0-0 draw against Levante one week ago. Real Sociedad defeated Sevilla 3-1 on Wednesday, seemingly prompting the decision to dismiss him.
The 48-year-old Argentine tactician took over last summer after the departure of Jorge Sampaoli. During Berizzo’s tenure, the club accumulated a record of 14 wins, seven losses, and six draws across all competitions.
Los Rojiblancos sit fifth in La Liga and have a February date with Manchester United in the Champions League round of 16. Sevilla also remains in the hunt for the Copa del Rey.
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