Ivory Coast part company with Stielike

"The president (Jacques Anouma) would like to thank the coach for his achievements and wish him every success for the future," a FIF spokesman said.

Stielike, whose contact ran out on April 15th, had an unstable campaign with the team since the start of the year due to the serious illness of his son Michael, who eventually died in February.

The former Real Madrid midfielder led Ivory Coast to the 2008 African Cup of Nations finals in Ghana, but was not able to attend the event.

Frenchman Gerard Gili took his place as the Elephants were eliminated by Egypt in the semis, following a thumping 4-1 defeat.

Former France star Jean Tigana is strongly tipped for the Ivory Coast hot seat.