Villarreal sack coach Calleja

Vila Real (Spain), Dec 10: Villarreal on Monday announced it had sacked coach Javier Calleja, with the Spanish club sitting three points above the relegation zone in the La Liga.

Calleja took over as Villarreal head coach in October 2017 to replace Fran Escriba, reports Efe news.

"Villarreal CF has decided to relieve Javi Calleja of his duties as first-team manager," the club statement read.

"The club wants to thank the coach for his hard work, dedication and professionalism on the Yellows' bench after taking charge early on last season, and wish him the best of luck in his sporting career," it added.

Villarreal is to announce the new manager in the coming hours, according to the club.

The Yellows, currently placed 17th in La Liga standings with 14 points, are set to take on Spartak Moskva in the UEFA Europa League Group G on Thursday.