Midtable Valencia sack Marcelino, appoint Celades

Valencia have dismissed manager Marcelino months after he led the club to its first trophy in more than a decade.

Los Che announced the unexpected news on Wednesday, relieving the former midfielder of his duties ahead of Saturday's return to domestic football at Barcelona.

The club shortly thereafter named former Spain youth boss Albert Celades as Marcelino's successor, with the incoming manager penning a deal through 2021.

"The club wish to thank Marcelino for his hard work and dedication during his time as coach, and wish him the best of success for the future," Valencia's statement read.

Valencia have started the 2019-20 term with one victory, one draw, and one defeat to sit 10th in Spain's top flight. They kick off their Champions League quest next week at Chelsea.

Marcelino, who joined Valencia in May 2017, guided the club to a fourth-place finish last season and a Champions League berth after a poor start to the campaign saw the Spaniards flirt with relegation.

Valencia also won last year's Copa del Rey over Barcelona courtesy of first-half strikes from Kevin Gameiro and Rodrigo. The trophy was Valencia's first since capturing the same honor at the completion of the 2007-08 season.