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Athletic Club sack coach Garitano ahead of Barcelona game

The Bilbao side won 1-0 against Elche on Saturday before pulling the trigger

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Athletic Club have sacked coach Gaizka Garitano just hours after Sunday's 1-0 win over Elche at San Mames in La Liga.

"Athletic Club have decided to relieve Gaizka Garitano and his coaching staff from their duties with the first team," a statement confirmed.

"We would like to thank them for their effort and dedication since they took over at a delicate moment for the club. We also want to with them the best for the future."

Garitano, 45, took over in December 2018 with Athletic struggling in La Liha. He has previously managed Bibao Athletic, the club's B team, since July 2017.

In total, he oversaw 89 games at Athletic and led the club to the Copa del Rey final last season. That final, though, against Real Sociedad, has not yet been played due to the coronavirus pandemic -- both clubs want fans to be able to attend.

 

Athletic are currently ninth in La Liga with 21 points. On Wednesday they face Barcelona at San Mames.

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