Jorge Jesus leaves Al-Hilal after falling six points behind leaders Al-Ittihad in Saudi Pro League title race, although they still lead Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr

The former Benfica manager has mutually agreed to leave Al-Hilal after the reigning Saudi Pro League champions fell six points behind league leaders Al-Ittihad and crashed out of the AFC Champions League semi-final after a 3-1 defeat to Al-Ahli earlier this week.

In an official statement, Al-Hilal confirmed the 70-year-old manager's departure. The statement read: "The Board of Directors of Al-Hilal Club Company has agreed with the Portuguese head coach of the first team, Jorge Jesus, to terminate the contractual relationship between them. The Board expressed its appreciation for the efforts made by the technical staff since last season. The club has appointed Mohammed Al-Shalhoub as the interim head coach of Al-Hilal for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, the Board has decided to appoint the coach Mohammed Al-Shalhoub to lead the first team in the Saudi League."

Jesus has been linked with a move to the Brazil national team, although Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti remains the Selecao's number one target for their managerial role. Along with the veteran Portuguese coach, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) are also exploring names like Palmeiras' Abel Ferreira.

Al-Hilal will be back in action in the Saudi Pro League on May 7 as they take on Al-Raed away from home. It is a must-win clash for the defending champions if they want to remain alive in the title race.