Aitor Karanka, Middlesbrough Officially Part Ways

Middlesbrough have parted ways with manager Aitor Karanka, with the team 19th in the Premier League.

Boro made the announcement on social media:

They also made a statement on their official website: "Middlesbrough Football Club can today confirm the departure of head coach Aitor Karanka. Following discussions, both parties have agreed that it is in the best interests of the club to make this change."

Per the statement, Karanka said: 

"

I'd like to thank Middlesbrough for a wonderful opportunity and the players, staff and all the people at the club who I have worked with. I'd also like to thank the fans for their support. This club will always hold a special place for me and I wish everyone connected with Middlesbrough Football Club the very best for the future.

"

The Spaniard became Boro manager in 2013 as his first senior role as a No. 1, and he guided them to promotion from the Championship last season.

However, despite their impressive defensive record—Middlesbrough have shipped just 30 goals, bettered only by Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City and Manchester United—they find themselves in serious danger of relegation due to their inability to score.

OptaJoe highlighted the contrast between their Championship and Premier League form under Karanka:

Boro have not won in the league since December 17 and have only found the net three times in their last 10 matches.

WhoScored.com and Squawka Football revealed the numbers behind their poor goalscoring record:

In light of Middlesbrough's struggles, Sky Sports' Hayley McQueen and The Times' Oliver Kay believe the time was right for the manager to go:

Boro now face the task of finding a boss who can revitalise the team and keep them in the top flight with two months remaining.

Football writer Alan Biggs believes Nigel Pearson would be a strong candidate for the job:

Pearson is not only experienced with the club, but he also kept Leicester City in the Premier League against all odds in 2015, so he could be able to do the same for the Teessiders.

Were he to fail, he also gained promotion with the Foxes, so he would equally be a good option to lead the team next year.

Former Boro boss Steve McClaren and Alan Pardew are also among the available options with neither currently managing a side.

In the meantime, assistant manager Steve Agnew will take charge until a permanent appointment is made, with Boro gearing up to face Manchester United at the Riverside Stadium on Sunday.