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:
25. Eric Roy
The former Sunderland player is the current manager of Ligue 1 side Brest and was linked with the job last time out. Likely linked with the bookies because of his connection to the club and that he is French. He doesn't feel likely to arrive at the Academy of Light this summer but you never know! Photo: FRED TANNEAU
26. Lee Carsley
The England youth coach was heavily linked with the Sunderland job before Micahel Beale's eventual appointment. Feels unlikely this time around, though, given his current role with the national team. Photo: Naomi Baker
27. Nigel Pearson
The former Leicester CIty boss has been out of work since leaving Bristol City earlier this season but is unlikely to be appointed by Sunderland. Photo: George Wood
28. Alex Neil
The former Sunderland and Stoke City manager is once again out of work with reports claiming that the former Preston and Norwich manager would be open to returning to the Academy of Light. Does feel unlikely given the manner of his departure last season. Photo: Harry Trump