Valencia sack manager Gracia after 10 months

Valencia have sacked head coach Javi Gracia after 10 months in charge.

The La Liga side’s 3-2 defeat by Barcelona on Sunday saw them drop to within six points of the relegation zone.

The former Watford boss leaves having won just eight games this season.

A statement said: “The club wants to publicly thank [Gracia] for his work and dedication during these months leading the team and wishes him the best of success for the future.”

The six-time Spanish champions are currently 14th in the table with four fixtures left to play.

Assistant manager Salvador Gonzalez ‘Voro’ will lead the first team on a provisional basis.