Confirmed: Guus Hiddink named new Chelsea boss after Jose Mourinho sacking

Guus Hiddink will manage Chelsea until the end of the season

 

CHELSEA have confirmed Guus Hiddink as their new interim boss until the end of the season.

 

The Dutchman takes over from Jose Mourinho, who was sacked by Blues owner Roman Abramovich on Thursday.

Technical director Michael Emenalo said the decision was taken due to a "palpable discord between the manager and the players".

However, the board have now put their full trust in Hiddink, citing his "wealth of top-level experience and success" as the reason for his appointment.

 

A Chelsea statement read: "Mr Abramovich and the Board believe that Guus has what it takes to get the best out of our talented squad.

"The owner and the Board welcome back a coach with a wealth of top-level experience and success, including his previous spell with the club in 2009 when we lifted the FA Cup."

The 69-year-old took charge of Chelsea in 2009 after Luiz Felipe Scolari was dismissed, steering them to a third-placed finish and FA Cup triumph over Everton.

 

Hiddink's last job was as manager of the Netherlands. He was sacked in June after a poor Euro 2016 qualifying campaign, but has admitted he's raring to go in his second spell in charge of the Blues.

"I am excited to return to Stamford Bridge. Chelsea is one of the biggest clubs in the world but is not where it should be at the moment," he said

"However, I am sure we can all turn this season around.

"I am looking forward to working with the players and staff at this great club and especially renewing my wonderful relationship with the Chelsea fans."

The club have confirmed the Dutchman will be at this afternoon's game with Sunderland, however Steve Holland will take control of team matters for the game alongside Eddie Newton.