Trapattoni's departure comes after consecutive defeats against Sweden and Austria left Ireland facing an uphill task to qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. 

Ireland can still qualify for the finals despite those losses, but would need a remarkable turnaround to have any chance of reaching the finals in Brazil.

They sit six points adrift of second-place Sweden with two games to go, and possess an inferior goal difference ahead of meetings with Group C leaders Germany and minnows Kazakhstan. 

Trapattoni did lead Ireland to the UEFA European Championships in 2012, however he could not guide them past the group stage, suffering defeats to Croatia, Spain and Italy. 

Ireland's prospective exit from World Cup qualifying will mean that they have not reached the finals of football's biggest tournament since 2002, when they made it to the round of 16 under the guidance of Mick McCarthy, who has been linked with a return to the post.

This newest failure has signalled the end for Trapattoni, with assistant Marco Tardelli also leaving his post.

"The Football Association of Ireland, Giovanni Trapattoni and Marco Tardelli today (Wednesday) announced that following an amicable meeting this morning, they have parted company by mutual consent," an FAI statement read.

However, despite his departure, Trapattoni was quick to express his admiration for the Irish fans.

"I want to thank everyone in Ireland who has given us their support during our time here which has always meant a lot to us," he said.

"We leave this country with emotion because we understand the Irish supporters who have a well-deserved international reputation and they have our utmost respect.

"I would also want to thank all FAI staff members, including the backroom team and the players who have been great to work with during the last three campaigns.

"I wish them well in the future and hope that the job we have done leaves everything in a good place for my successor to take over."