Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho has been sacked after a disastrous start to the Premier League season, the club have confirmed.

Several outlets, including the BBC, reported that the 52-year-old Portuguese had been dismissed by the club for the second time, having been sacked at the end of his previous spell in 2007.

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Mourinho led Chelsea to a Premier League and League Cup double last season, after returning to the club in 2013, but they are currently one point above the relegation zone after nine defeats in 16 games.

Juande Ramos, the former Tottenham Hotspur and Sevilla manager, and Dutchman Guus Hiddink have been cited as potential short-term replacements.

The Premier League champions confirmed the news in a statement.

“Chelsea Football Club and Jose Mourinho have today parted company by mutual consent.

“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.

“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.”