Coach Ivan Juric has parted ways with Southampton after the team confirmed their relegation from the Premier League.
The Croatian coach only held the position for 108 days, losing 12 out of 14 games in the league.
The Saints set a record by becoming the earliest team ever to be relegated from England’s top division.
Their relegation was confirmed after a 3-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, leaving them with seven games remaining in the season.
According to Sky Sports News, Simon Rusk will manage the team for the rest of the season. Rusk had a brief stint as the coach when Russell Martin, who was Juric’s predecessor, departed from St Mary’s.
Adam Lallana will also play a role in the new coaching setup.
Right now, the club isn’t close to hiring a new coach, and Juric’s departure gives them plenty of time to find the right person for next season.
On Monday morning, the Southampton players were informed, and Juric’s coaching staff is also leaving the club.
Juric spent only 108 days at the club on the south coast. He started just before Christmas and had an 18-month contract that included a clause to review it at the end of the season.
The manager acknowledges that he wants to steer clear of setting the record for the fewest points in Premier League history after his team’s relegation was confirmed following a loss to Spurs.
“During the three or four months I’ve been here, I’ve noticed that we lack the physical strength that other teams in the Premier League have,” he said.
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“I believe Leicester and Ipswich have faced the same issue. The difference in physicality between the Championship and the Premier League is significant.
“Moving forward, we need to identify players who can develop and improve. Our focus should not only be on winning the Championship, but also on nurturing players who will be ready for the Premier League.
“I told the players they should be very grateful for fans like this; it’s amazing how much they care for their team. I believe they truly deserve better.
“Everyone at Southampton needs to improve and build something much stronger than what we accomplished this year.
“This is a different culture, and even for me, it’s something remarkable. Showing love during these times reflects the great spirit of England and Southampton—it’s incredible.
“Now is a crucial time to recognize all the mistakes the club has made over the last three to four years, so the club can start creating something really good,” he said.
