Babbel shown the door by Hertha

Bundesliga outfit Hertha Berlin have sacked head coach Markus Babbel with immediate effect.

Babbel’s contract with Hertha was due to expire at the end of the season and he recently revealed he had no intention of signing a new deal with the Berlin side.

The 39-year-old coach also criticised the club for their conduct in the aftermath of his announcement, and last year’s 2. Bundesliga champions have now decided to say farewell to Babbel.

“On Sunday, December 18, Hertha BSC relieved head coach Markus Babbel of his duties with immediate effect. The decision will be further explained at a press conference,” an official statement read.

The former Germany international started as Hertha coach in 2010 and guided them back to the Bundesliga in his first season in charge. They currently sit 11th in the German top tier.

Hertha have been linked with Eskisehirspor coach Michael Skibbe, as Babbel’s replacement, but the 46-year-old has denied rumours that he could be on his way to Berlin.