Michael Beale was appointed as Tony Mowbray's successor in December but left the club after back-to-back defeats to Huddersfield Town and Birmingham City.
The former Rangers boss was handed a two-and-a-half-year contract but in the end took charge of just 12 fixtures, including the 3-0 FA Cup defeat to Newcastle United.
His final record reads at four wins, two draws and seven defeats. Mike Dodds, who oversaw three games following Tony Mowbray's departure, returns to the post of interim head coach and will stay in that role until the summer, giving the club time to plot their long-term direction.
Sporting director Kristjaan Speakman said he was 'disappointed' that Beale was leaving but that it was in the best interests of the club. He added that the club took 'full accountability' for what had happened.
Dodds will take charge of the first team until the summer but lost his first game back in the hot seat against Swansea City at the Stadium of Light last weekend.
But who will take over from Dodds at the Academy of Light during the summer? Here, we take a look at the early candidates and assess the likelihood of their appointment by Sunderland:
5. Lee Cattermole
The former Sunderland player has expressed his desire to take steps into football management. His first opportunity, however, is unlikely to come with his former club given Cattermole's lack of top-level head coaching experience. Photo: Mark Runnacles
6. Dwight Yorke
The former Sunderland striker has thrown his hat into the ring for the job but is unlikely to be successful with his application given his own lack of experience. It would be hugely surprising to see this one come off. Photo: Ian Walton
7. Kim Hellberg
The Swedish coach's name has once again cropped up in relation to the Sunderland job and he does feel like the type of head coach the club would potentially target for the job. One to watch during the summer. Photo: George Wood
8. Kevin Phillips
The former South Shields manager is now at Hartlepool United and has done well during his short tenure at the club so far but is unlikely to be given the Sunderland job any time soon given his lack of EFL managerial experience. Photo: Nathan Stirk