Onuachu’s big break giver, Aina’s former boss, departs sinking Southampton

Southampton have parted ways with Ola Aina’s former boss and Paul Onuachu’s English Premier League launchpad, Ivan Juric, Soccernet.ng reports.

The decision follows a disappointing spell in charge, with the Saints’ relegation to the Championship now mathematically confirmed.

Juric, who arrived at the club in a desperate bid to salvage their season, failed to inspire the turnaround needed, both in performances and results.

In an official statement, Southampton announced:

“We can confirm that we have today reached an agreement with our Men’s First Team Manager, Ivan Juric, to end his spell at the club… Unfortunately, we haven’t seen performances progress the way we had hoped… but we would like to thank Ivan and his staff for their honesty and hard work.”

Juric, once regarded as a tactician with potential during his time in Serie A, notably worked with Super Eagles full-back Ola Aina at Torino.

His time at Southampton saw him back Paul Onuachu in the starting XI after a prolonged spell on the bench under previous managers.

Despite Onuachu scoring four goals in his last nine games, Juric’s reported lack of man-management skills and failure to connect with the dressing room cost him support internally.

With Juric gone, Simon Rusk has taken charge of the team on an interim basis for the remaining seven games of the season, assisted by Adam Lallana.

The club confirmed that the search for a new permanent manager has already begun, with Group Technical Director Johannes Spors leading the process.

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Notably, former Chelsea star, Frank Lampard, who has done an impressive job at Coventry City, is believed to be on the shortlist.

While Southampton prepare for life in the Championship, they remain hopeful of a quick return to the Premier League.

“Our goal is to restore a sense of pride for [the fans] in their team and club once again,” the club added.

For Onuachu, the managerial change could yet again impact his role at the club, especially as transfer rumours continue to swirl ahead of the summer window.