Napoli have sacked boss Carlo Ancelotti despite Tuesday night’s 4-0 victory over Genk that propelled the club into the Champions League knockout phase.

The Serie A outfit made the announcement shortly after they had qualified as Group E runners-up behind Liverpool.

“Napoli has taken the decision to part ways with first-team coach Carlo Ancelotti,” a statement read.

“The friendship and mutual respect between the club, President Aurelio De Laurentiis and Carlo Ancelotti remain intact.”

Although no reason has been given for Ancelotti’s departure, Napoli’s league form has been disappointing having not registered a Serie A win since October 19.

They lie in seventh place, 17 points adrift of leaders Inter Milan.

The 60-year-old former Chelsea boss was just 18 months into a three-year contract.

Provided by Press Association Sports