Pako Ayestaran has been sacked as Valencia after only four matches this season.

The 53-year-old was appointed Valencia boss in March after Gary Neville’s unsuccessful spell in charge of the former Spanish champions.

Ayestaran leaves the club bottom with zero points after four games played. The latest defeat came at the hands of Athletic Club de Bilbao, where Los Che lost, 2-1. That loss seemed to break the camel's back, with reports in Spain suggesting Ayestaran would be given no more chances in charge; his inevitable fate was confirmed.

Tough times for the Spanish giants

Salvador Gonzalez, also known as 'Voro' will assume the managerial role until the Valencia hierarchy can find a suitable, permanent replacement. Voro has served as interim boss on three separate occasions and in when he took over in 2008, he led the side to Copa del Rey glory.

“Following a meeting of the Board of Directors, Valencia Club de Futbol have taken the decision to release Pako Ayestaran from his role as first team coach. The decision has been made after analysing the current sporting situation and results,” a club statement read.

The statement continued, “Valencia Club de Futbol would like to thank Pako Ayestaran and his coaching staff for their commitment, effort and professionalism during their time in charge of the team. The Club wish him and his team the best of luck for the future.”

Ayestaran (L) was very successful as Rafa Benitez's number two | Photo: Getty/AFP
Ayestaran (L) was very successful as Rafa Benitez's number two | Photo: Getty/AFP

Ayestaran was highly successful as the assistant to Rafa Benitez when he was in charge of Valencia, winning the UEFA Cup and La Liga, before the pair left for Liverpool. They led the Liverpool side to Champions League glory in the 2004-05 season.

Ayestaran could not replicate the success he had during his time as Benitez’s assistant, winning just three of the 13 matches during his short spell in charge.

Valencia fans will be hoping Voro can turn their fortunes around when they face La Liga newcomers Leganes next.

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About the author
Ayden Hussain
I am a Sports Journalism at UCLan and I have been football mad since a young age, following Manchester United and Valencia.