Saint-Andre had been brought in as director of rugby, but Garbajosa was sacked as sporting manager in the wake of Montpellier’s 16-9 defeat by Toulouse on Saturday.

“After a detailed analysis of our sporting situation, Montpellier Herault Rugby and Xavier Garbajosa have decided to end their collaboration,” the club said.

Montpellier added that Saint-Andre, who was France coach between 2011-15, would take over the “management of the professional team with the support of the current staff and more particularly two coaches in Jean-Baptiste Elissalde and Olivier Azam”.

Garbajosa, 44, had been with Montpellier since summer 2019, having replaced New Zealander Vern Cotter.

Montpellier currently sit in 13th spot in the Top 14, having won just three of their 10 matches this season.

AFP