Chelsea sack manager Jose Mourinho following disastrous start to the season
Chelsea have sacked Jose Mourinho following a disastrous start to the Premier League season which has seen the defending champions lose nine of their 16 games so far.
The Blues are currently just one point above the relegation zone following a 2-1 loss at league leaders Leicester City on Monday night.
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Stars of last season such as Eden Hazard, Nemanja Matic and Diego Costa – all of whom were named in the PFA team of the season – have been criticised for below-par performances this campaign.
Following the loss at Leicester Mourinho said he felt he had been "betrayed" by his players who did not follow his game plan.
Despite handing the Portuguese boss a new four-year contract in the summer, Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has brought Mourinho's second spell at Stamford Bridge to an end after less than two and a half seasons.
Despite proclaiming himself to be "the happy one" following his return to West London in 2013, Mourinho has engaged in public disputes with referees and even his own medical staff this season.
With well over three years remain on his contract, he is likely to command a hefty severance fee from Abramovich with reports estimating compensation between £10m and £40m.
In a statement the club said: "Both Jose and the board agreed results have not been good enough this season and believe it is in the best interests of both parties to go our separate ways.
"The club wishes to make clear Jose leaves us on good terms and will always remain a much-loved, respected and significant figure at Chelsea. His legacy at Stamford Bridge and in England has long been guaranteed and he will always be warmly welcomed back to Stamford Bridge."