The board of directors met on Tuesday and issued a statement saying Maradona and his technical staff had been immediately “relieved” of their duties. Maradona, who was on vacation and not in Dubai, could not be reached for comment.

A replacement for Maradona was not announced.

Maradona signed a two-year deal in May 2011. He was popular with fans and helped put United Arab Emirates football on the map, however his team finished eighth in the 12-team league.

Maradona had still been expected to return for a second season but was left vulnerable when the Al Wasl board was replaced in June.

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