Struggling Rayo Vallecano sack manager Michel

Madrid - Rayo Vallecano on Monday sacked coach Miguel Angel Sánchez Munoz, known as Michel, after a desperate run of seven straight La Liga defeats which has them staring relegation from in the face.

"Rayo Vallecano have taken the decision to dismiss Míchel as coach of the first team," the club said in a statement.

Rayo did not name a new coach or say who will be in charge of training in the coming days.

Michel was sacked the day after losing 3-1 at relegation rivals Villarreal on Sunday, a defeat that leaves Rayo second from bottom and six points from safety.

The 43-year-old led the club to Spain's top flight last season after winning the Segunda Division title.