Red Bull Salzburg have sacked manager Pep Legends after 16 games in the Austrian Bundesliga, saying Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool assistant had managed performances "far below our own needs and objectives".

The Dutch legend was appointed in May in his second spell at Anfield after six years, leading Salzburg to two Champions League qualifiers and winning his first three league games in charge.

Salzburg have won 3 and lost 6 of their 12 games in October and November, and are preparing to go straight out of the Champions League.

Official: FC Red Bull Salzburg and Pepijn Lijnders are parting ways with the 41-year-old Dutchman resigning today. Thanks for your commitment and all the best for the future, Pep!

- FC Red Bull Salzburg EN (@FCRBS_en) December 16, 2024

"We have recently started to analyze as planned," Salzburg said in a statement, adding that he hopes to have a new manager in place when his players resume training on January 3.

“In many of our matches, it was clear to see that we fell far short of our own needs and goals. So we can be sure that our team needs a new initiative under new leadership, although we hope that there will be a change in the end.

"We want to thank Pep for his job. He has put a lot of effort and passion into it and has given us valuable impetus for our continued development. We are now desperately looking for a new coach."

More to follow