Australia's World Cup opponents Saudi Arabia have ditched the world's highest-paid soccer manager Roberto Mancini just three weeks before the crucial qualifying clash with the Socceroos in Melbourne.
The distinguished former Italy boss Mancini, who was only 14 months into a four-year deal reportedly worth $A150 million, has paid the price for the Saudis' series of unconvincing performances which has left them battling for a top-two qualification spot in group C - just like Australia - that will seal their finals place.
A statement from from the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) on Thursday said the 59-year-old had left his role as coach of Saudi Arabia after his contract was ended by mutual agreement.
