Uruguayan coach Fossati, who led the Qataris to the final round of the 2010 World Cup qualifiers, will need time in order to recover from a stomach surgery.

"We reached a mutual consent agreement with Fossati. He needs time after the operation and the upcoming period is crucial," said QFA president Hamad ben Khalifa.

"We want to thank Fossati for his efforts with the team and we ensure that the decision is not technical.

"Bruno Metsu is the closest and best alternative for the job."

Frenchman Metsu has just quit his job as UAE manager, following two consecutive defeats in Group B of the Asian qualifiers.