Report: Chelsea Have Fired José Mourinho

It actually happened. According to the BBC’s Dan Roan, Chelsea have told manager José Mourinho that he has been fired:

After enduring such a disastrous season, where Chelsea currently sit just one point above the relegation zone thanks to a staggering 9 losses in 16 games, this should not come as a shock to anyone. And yet, it’s still somehow surprising that they finally pulled the plug. More to come as this develops.

Update [10:15 a.m.]: Chelsea have now confirmed it. Here’s part of their statement:

All at Chelsea thank Jose for his immense contribution since he returned as manager in the summer of 2013.

His three league titles, FA Cup, Community Shield and three League Cup wins over two spells make him the most successful manager in our 110-year history. But 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.

Update [11:14 p.m.]: It appears the club has decided on an interim manager, too:

Hiddink, you may remember, served in this same role at Chelsea for about half a season back in 2009 after the club got rid of Luiz Felipe Scolari midway through the 08-09 campaign.

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