Parma confirmed the departure after an internal discussion between the club and Cuesta, bringing an end to the Spaniard’s time in charge despite his work helping establish the team in Serie A.
“Following an internal discussion between the club and the coach, it was agreed that there were no longer the conditions for the professional relationship to continue, particularly regarding the development of the sporting project,” Parma said.
“The necessary conditions to continue the work undertaken were no longer there and this decision was reached by mutual agreement.”
Parma added that Monday afternoon’s training session would be handled by the club’s existing technical staff while the search for a new head coach continues.
The club also thanked Cuesta and his staff for their work, commitment and dedication during their time in Emilia-Romagna.
Attention has now turned to the identity of his successor.
According to Sky Sport, Gilardino is currently the leading candidate and Parma president Kyle Krause is expected to speak directly with the former Italy international.
Any agreement would require Gilardino to resolve his existing contract with Pisa before taking charge at Parma.
The coaching search is not limited to Gilardino. Roberto D’Aversa and Paolo Zanetti have also been identified among the candidates under consideration.
A promotion from within is not currently expected, with Primavera coach Nicola Corrent reportedly ruled out as an option for the first team.
The change comes after Cuesta had overseen Parma’s return to and consolidation in Italy’s top flight.
His departure therefore represents a significant change in direction for a club that must now move quickly to appoint a successor and maintain its Serie A campaign.
Gilardino would bring experience of managing in Italy’s top two divisions, having previously worked with Genoa and other clubs before taking charge of Pisa.
For now, however, Parma have confirmed only Cuesta’s departure and the temporary responsibility of the existing staff.
The next step will be Krause’s meeting with Gilardino and the outcome of discussions over the former Italy striker’s availability.
If an agreement is reached, Gilardino will first have to settle his contractual situation with Pisa before beginning work in Parma.