Chinese Super League side Chongqing Lifan have parted company with South Korean coach Chang Woe-ryong, the club announced, with former Portugal coach Paulo Bento linked with the post.
Chang led Chongqing to 10th in the league standings last season after an eighth place finish in 2016, but has been allowed to leave by the club after two years in charge.
"Since the middle of the 2017 season, Chongqing LIfan club has been discussing the issue of a contract renewal with Mr Chang and now we have decided to respect Mr Chang's decision and agree to release him from the position of head coach immediately," the statement said.
"The club will start to look for a new coach as soon as possible.
"From 2016 until the end of 2017 and through the coach's endless efforts, the club has been revived and there have been many achievements and highlights. The fans have been left with some wonderful memories.
"We hereby thank Mr Chang for his devotion over the last two years and we hope he goes on to have a bright career."
Chinese media have reported that Bento will replace the South Korean, but no official comment has been made by the club on Chang's replacement.
