Sunderland's Europa League opponents make shock managerial decision just days before Stadium of Light clash
Sunderland's Europa League opponents Dinamo Zagreb have parted company with manager Mario Kovačević just four days before their visit to the Stadium of Light
Sunderland's Europa League opponents Dinamo Zagreb have confirmed the departure of head coach Mario Kovačević just days before Thursday night's meeting at the Stadium of Light.
The Croatian champions announced on Sunday that they had reached an agreement to terminate Kovačević's contract by mutual consent following Saturday's shock 1-0 domestic defeat to Rudeš.
The decision means Dinamo will arrive on Wearside under new management for Thursday's European fixture, with former Dinamo B coach Jerko Leko appointed on an interim basis for their next two matches. Kovačević departs despite guiding the Croatian giants to a domestic league and cup double last season, having overseen 73 matches in charge, winning 48, drawing 11 and losing 14.
In a statement, Dinamo confirmed: "GNK Dinamo and former first team coach Mario Kovačević have terminated the contract agreement. "GNK Dinamo thanks Mr. Kovačević for his great professionalism, dedicated work and exceptional humanity that he showed every day as Dinamo coach.
"Special thanks go to winning the double crown with which the titles of Croatian champions and Croatian Cup winners were returned to Maksimir. We wish Mariju much luck and success in the continuation of his coaching career, as well as in all future professional and personal challenges. The next two matches, the first team will temporarily take over by Jerko Leko, the former coach of Dinamo B."
The managerial change comes at an intriguing time for both clubs, with Sunderland also enduring a difficult start to their domestic campaign under Régis Le Bris. The Black Cats were beaten 3-1 at Coventry City on Saturday, leaving them bottom of the Premier League after nine matches.
However, Sunderland's European form has provided some encouragement, with seven points from their opening three Europa League fixtures following victories over AZ Alkmaar and Torreense and a draw against Lech Poznań. Thursday's fixture represents an opportunity for Le Bris' side to continue their unbeaten European campaign against opponents experiencing significant upheaval. The game kicks off at 8pm on Thursday, November 5, with Leko set to take charge of Dinamo for the first time.