Aitor Karanka has paid the price for his side's limp attack, becoming the sixth Premier League managerial casualty this season.
Despite bringing Boro to the FA Cup quarter finals, a run of 10 league games without a win has seen them fall to 19th in the table and three points from safety.
Boro had made a steady start in their return to the top tier after seven seasons in the Championsip, but while they've been impressive at the back, Karanka can look at a lifeless attack for the reason he's lost his job.
Just four teams in the league have conceded less than the 30 against Middlesbrough, but with just 19 goals scored in 27 games, it's five short of the next lowest scorers.
And having seen Swansea, Hull and Leicester all get the bounce after sacking managers this season, Middlesbrough are now hoping they can rescue their Premier League status.
Despite seeing his three and a half year reign at the Riverside end in such disappointing fashion, Karanka paid tribute to the Boro fans on Twitter this afternoon.
I wish everyone connected with Middlesbrough Football Club the very best for the future. Up The Boro! 3/3
— Aitor Karanka (@Karanka) March 16, 2017
Former Leicester boss Nigel Pearson is the early favourite to replace Karanka, having captained the club during his final four years as a player.
Assistant manager Steve Agnew will take caretaker charge of the club, when they host Manchester United this Sunday.
