Sinisa Mihajlovic sacked as Bologna head coach

has three points after their opening five matches in Serie A.

was diagnosed with leukemia in July 2019 but continued in his role as Bologna manager.

Bologna president Joey Saputo said in a statement:

"It has been the most difficult decision in my tenure here.

"In these years, we have experienced the most beautiful and the hardest moments together that have built not only a strong professional rapport but also a human one.

"Mihajlovic has faced his illness with courage and determination since he explained to everyone his state of health in that very moving press conference.

"Despite his stays in hospital and the heavy effects of the treatment received, he's always remained close to the squad, pushing himself to be in touch with the players, in person or via live conference links.

"Thanks must also be given to the professionalism of his staff, too. The club and the city have joined together to stay close to the head coach in this extremely difficult situation, even if Mihajlovic has always rightly maintained that he wanted to be judged on his professional work.

"Now, unfortunately, the time has arrived to change, which has not been taken lightly but made for the good of the team and the club.

"But even if from today Sinisa Mihajlovic is not the head coach of Bologna, the club and everyone connected to it will forever be by his side until he has recovered completely and in his future career decisions."

Mihajlovic  was appointed as Bologna manager in 2008 but lost his position in April 2009. In January 2019, he became Bologna manager for the second time.

Mihajlovic has managed the likes of Sporting Lisbon,

and Sampdoria during his managerial career.

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