"With reference to the health of Sergio Marchionne, FCA communicates with profound sorrow that during the course of this week unexpected complications arose while Mr Marchionne was recovering from surgery and that these have worsened significantly in recent hours," the statement said.

It appointed Manley as new CEO and said the British executive would proceed with the implementation of a strategy outlined by Marchionne last month.

(Editing by Mark Bendeich)