Chelsea has sacked its manager José Mourinho seven months after he led the team to the Premier League title.
The 52-year-old Portuguese, aka ‘The Special One’ was on his second contract having started in June 2013.
Last season Chelsea won the League Cup but this season’s string of losses, nine in 16 games, has left them just one point above relegation.
Mourinho's last match was Monday's 2-1 defeat at leaders Leicester City and Chelsea’s owner Roman Abramovich clearly has had enough.
Chelsea's management today issued a statement:
"Chelsea Football Club and José Mourinho have today parted company by mutual consent.
"All at Chelsea thank José 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 José and the board agreed that the 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 José 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.
"The club's focus is now on ensuring our talented squad reaches its potential.
"There will be no further comment until a new appointment is made."
BBC Match of the Day pundit Alan Shearer said he was "shocked" by Mourinho's departure but admitted Chelsea's recent form had been dreadful.
"I have never known players to perform like they did last season and then be so bad now. It's unprecedented."
Former England and Arsenal defend Martin Keown said Mourinho had "lost the players."
"It has imploded in front of our eyes," he said. "Ultimately it is easier to change the manager than 22 players."
How Mourinho will spend his 13 million euro pay-off remains to be seen.
