'Unacceptable!' - Al-Ittihad confirm Marcelo Gallardo's exit after coach 'requested the removal' of Karim Benzema

The Argentine took up the role last November but could only guide his side to fifth place in the Saudi Pro League. Rumours of the former River Plate manager's sacking have gone on for weeks now and Al-Ittihad have now confirmed he has departed; with the hunt for his successor underway.

The club's president, Louay Nazer, said, via Fabrizio Romano: "Gallardo made significant mistakes by requesting the removal of Benzema, which is unacceptable. He is an essential part of Saudi Arabia's and the club's project. We have 2/3 options for new manager."

Gallardo's predecessor Nuno Espirito Santo led the Jeddah outfit to the league title last year but the 48-year-old fell well below those standards. He also had a falling out with marquee signing Benzema and it seems Al-Ittihad would rather keep hold of the French striker, rather than retain Gallardo.

Gallardo, who is reportedly set to receive an historic €30 million (£25m/$32m) severance package from Al-Ittihad, may look for a new job as the Saudi side try to find someone to replace him ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.