Rob Page has been sacked by Wales after the Football Association of Wales decided to call time on his three-and-a-half year reign. Page guided Wales to their first World Cup in 64 years but last week conceded the fans wanted him gone. He was under contract until 2026.

The FAW has been reviewing his position since a meek World Cup exit in Qatar and a set of disappointing friendly results this month proved the final straw. Wales drew 0-0 with Gibraltar, ranked 203rd in the world, and then were hammered 4-0 by Slovakia.

After defeat by Slovakia, Page conceded the supported had turned on him. “They want me out,” he said. “I completely understand.” Wales, with time until the next international window, are understood to be in no rush about making a swift appointment but have begun assessing candidates. Their next game is a Nations League qualifier at home to Turkey in September, before a trip to Montenegro in the same competition.

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Before taking charge of Wales on an interim basis after Ryan Giggs stepped aside, Page served as the Under-21s manager. He led the team to the last 16 at Euro 2020 but they suffered a group-stage exit at the World Cup in Qatar. Wales failed to qualify for Euro 2024 after a playoff defeat by Poland in March, when they lost in a penalty shootout.

The 49-year-old, who previously managed Port Vale and Northampton Town, was in charge of Wales for a total of 45 matches, winning 15, drawing 15 and – including the Poland shootout – losing 15.

The FAW’s chief executive, Noel Mooney, said: “On behalf of myself and the entire FAW, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rob for his commitment and dedication to his roles for the national teams.

“Under Rob Page’s leadership, our Cymru men’s team has achieved significant milestones and victories which have created many incredible memories for our nation, most notably our first World Cup in 64 years.”