Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has been sacked by French club Nice after five straight defeats in all competitions.

Fans protested the run of form ahead of last night’s defeat to Bayer Leverkusen, which saw Nice dumped out of Europe, by blocking the team coach’s path as Vieira and his squad left the training ground.

Vieira, who was a contender to replace Unai Emery at Arsenal before Mikel Arteta was given the job in December last year, leaves the club 11th in Ligue 1 after more than two years in charge.

A statement from Nice read: “In a meeting conducted after last night’s match, the Nice Board informed Patrick Vieira of their decision to end their collaboration.

“Patrick Vieira put all his heart and professionalism into his service for OGC Nice over the last two and a half years of their collaboration.

“The Nice board sincerely thanks the former France international for his commitment and dedication to the development of the club and wishes him every future success in his coaching career.”