The 57-year-old was the longest serving coach at a Spanish top-flight club, leading the modest Galician side to its first league title in 2000 and to King's Cup success in 2002 during his seven-year tenure.

After five consecutive seasons in the Champions League, however, they finished a disappointing eighth this year in the Primera Liga -- their worst placing since 1998.

"After seven years together we have met and decided, both of us, that now would be a good time to end the professional relationship between the club and the coach," Deportivo president Augusto Cesar Lendoiro told a new conference.

"But we want to stress that our relationship does not end here and that the door is always open for a possible return to the club in the future.

"We would like to thank him not only for the success he brought to the club, but also for the exemplary manner in which he has always conducted himself throughout his time here."

As to Irureta's possible replacement for next year, Lendoiro added: "I can assure you the club has not talked with anyone about the job. That would have shown a lack of respect."

Irureta, who confirmed the amicable nature of his departure, thanked everyone connected with the club.