Southampton sack head coach Ivan Juric after earliest relegation in PL history

IANS April 7, 2025 124 views

Southampton FC has made a dramatic managerial change after suffering the earliest relegation in Premier League history. Ivan Juric was sacked just 108 days after being appointed, following a disastrous run of 12 losses in 14 top-flight matches. The club has appointed Simon Rusk as interim manager for the remaining seven fixtures, with former Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana assisting him. Southampton's technical director Johannes Spors will lead the search for a permanent manager to help the team rebuild in the Championship.

"Ivan came to Southampton at a tough time and was tasked with trying to improve a squad in a difficult situation." - Southampton FC Statement
Southampton, April 7: Southampton FC have sacked men's first team manager Ivan Juric, a day after the Saints were sentenced to the earliest relegation, with seven games still left, in the Premier League after the 1-3 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.

Key Points

1

Juric dismissed after just 108 days with 12 losses in 14 games

2

Club confirms relegation with seven matches remaining

3

Simon Rusk appointed interim manager alongside Adam Lallana

Juric was named as Russell Martin's replacement four days before Christmas, on an 18-month deal and his reign lasted just 108 days in charge, losing 12 out of his 14 top-flight games

"Ivan came to Southampton at a tough time and was tasked with trying to improve a squad in a difficult situation. Unfortunately, we haven't seen performances progress the way we had hoped, but we would like to thank Ivan and his staff for their honesty and hard work as they fought against the odds to try and keep us up.

"With relegation to the Championship now confirmed, we believe it is important to give fans, players and staff some clarity on the future as we head into a very important summer," read the statement by Southampton.

According to a report by Sky Sports, the Championship-bound club had a relegation clause in Juric's contract which led to his premature departure.

The club have announced Simon Rusk, who was previously announced as the interim manager after the club had sacked Martin, to take charge of the club in the last phase of the season alongside former Liverpool midfielder Adam Lallana.

"The process of finding a new manager to lead us as we look to secure an immediate return to the Premier League has now begun and is being led by Group Technical Director Johannes Spors.

"In the meantime, Simon Rusk has agreed to take charge of the team as Interim Manager for the remaining seven fixtures of this season and will be assisted by Adam Lallana," the statement further read.

Reader Comments

M
Mark T.
Tough situation all around. Juric never stood a chance with that squad quality. The board should take some responsibility too for putting him in that position. Hope we can bounce back next season! ⚽
S
Sarah K.
As a Saints fan, this whole season has been painful to watch. 12 losses in 14 games is unacceptable at any level. At least we have Adam Lallana coming back - some positive news finally!
J
James P.
Respectful criticism: The club's statement sounds nice but actions speak louder. They've now sacked two managers in one season - maybe the problem isn't just the coaches? 🤔
L
Lisa W.
That relegation clause explains everything. Business decision, pure and simple. Hope they invest properly in the summer - the Championship is no walk in the park!
D
Dave R.
Relegated with 7 games left... ouch. At least we can focus on rebuilding now. Interesting to see Lallana in a coaching role - he knows the club well.
A
Amy S.
The managerial merry-go-round continues. Maybe we should've stuck with Martin longer? Hindsight is 20/20 I guess. Onwards and upwards! #SaintsFC

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Southampton FC Premier League Ivan Juric Relegation Simon Rusk Adam Lallana
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