José Mourinho has been sacked.

Chelsea said the decision had been by “mutual consent” and stressed that Mourinho was leaving “on good terms and will always remain a much-loved, respected and significant figure at Chelsea.”

Mourinho’s departure, the second time he has been sacked by Chelsea, comes just seven months after he led the side to the Premier League title, when they finished eight points clear.

However, his sacking follows a disastrous run of results that has seen them fall to sixteenth in the table, just one point above the relegation zone.

Pep Guardiola, Guus Hiddink, Brendan Rodgers and Juande Ramos have all been touted as possible successors.

“All at Chelsea thank José for his immense contribution since he returned as manager in the summer of 2013,” the club said in a statement this morning.

“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.

“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.”