A former Manchester City boss is reportedly in line for a monstrous payday after being sacked by Saudi Arabia.
Roberto Mancini was appointed as manager of the country's national side in August last year, on what is understood to have been a lucrative four-year deal.
Read: Unhappy African striker reacts to CAF Awards snub
Given the clubs he has previously managed and the trophies he has won, including the 2020 UEFA European Championship during his time in charge of Italy, there was considerable excitement around his appointment at the time.
Things, however, did not go as expected as the Italian tactician managed to lead the team to just seven wins during his 18 games at the helm.
This led to the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) confirming the former Inter Milan boss' departure in an official statement on Thursday night.
"The Board of Directors of the Saudi Football Federation and the coach of the national team, Roberto Mancini, reached a joint agreement today, which includes the end of the contractual relationship."
It is claimed the 59-year-old initially penned an agreement that would see him earn a whopping £21.5 million (about R488 million) a year, which was said to be the highest-paid management role in football.
While the tactician did not stay the full length of his contract, he is reportedly in line to receive a massive payout on the back of losing his position.
According to the Mirror, Mancini – based on his yearly earnings – could bank an estimated £65 million (about R1.4 billion) after the termination of his deal.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, are currently third in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers with five points after four matches, level with Australia, who are in second place on goal difference, and five points behind leaders Japan.
Read: Ex-Esteghlal star on Pitso: The team can't afford mistakes
It is understood the SAFF is looking to appoint a new manager before their next round of World Cup qualifiers against Australia and Indonesia next month.
By Junaid Benjamin
Follow him here on X