Sale Sharks head coach has departed the club with immediate effect

The former Italy international joined the Premiership side in June after leaving Benetton, working alongside director of rugby Alex Sanderson. However, his stint in Manchester has come to an early end after just six months.

Bortolami, who won 111 caps for Italy during a distinguished playing career, departs with Sale sitting seventh in the Premiership, having recorded two wins and four defeats from their opening six matches.

“I would like to thank everyone at Sale for making me feel so welcome during my time at the club,” Bortolami said. “I wish the club every success.”