Jose Mourinho was fired by Manchester United on Tuesday after failing to restore its status as a major European force in a turbulent 2½-year spell marked by clashes with players and increasing disgruntlement at the team's style of play.
The end for Mourinho at English soccer's most prestigious club came two days after a 3-1 loss at Liverpool, which was the latest reminder of just how far United has slumped behind the top teams in the Premier League and Europe.
United said it will not hire a permanent replacement for Mourinho until the offseason. The club will appoint a caretaker manager for the remainder of the season in the coming days.