Javier Irureta has resigned as Real Zaragoza coach following the 2-1 defeat at bottom club Levante at the weekend.

"I have offered my resignation and it has been accepted by the club," Irureta, who was at the helm for only six league games, said.

"After a draw, a win and four defeats the team need victories. They need a change.

"I think my leaving could be beneficial to the team - I don't think it will have a negative effect.

"They are in a difficult situation but all is not lost."

Spanish media have linked former Zaragoza player and coach Manolo Villanova to the vacant post.

Zaragoza's fourth straight loss in La Liga on Sunday left them 17th in the table and outside the relegation zone on goal difference.

Zaragoza were tipped as contenders for a Champions League place at the start of the season, having reinforced a side that finished sixth last year with the likes of Brazilian striker Ricardo Oliveira and Argentina defender Roberto Ayala.

These were added to existing talents such as Argentina internationals Diego Milito, Pablo Aimar and Andres D'Alessandro, but the team have struggled for consistency.

Last summer they sold centre-half and club captain Gabi Milito - brother of Diego - to Barcelona, perhaps a factor in their decline. D'Alessandro has since been sold and Aimar is out with a long-term injury.

Coach Victor Fernandez was sacked in January and his replacement Ander Garitano only lasted a week before quitting to be replaced by former Deportivo Coruna boss Irureta.

Irureta has only managed to steer them to one win in those six games, despite Oliveira and Milito#s status as two of La Liga's leading scorers.

Reuters