Chelsea have confirmed that Graham Potter has been relieved of his duties as first-team manager after less than six months in charge.
The 47-year-old, who was appointed Chelsea manager on a five-year deal in September, replacing Thomas Tuchel, was brought in from fellow Premier League outfit Brighton, where he achieved great success.
Chelsea shelled out a reported £21.5 million to land Potter and key members of his coaching staff but results have been poor in recent weeks and Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa appeared to the final nail in the coffin.
Confirming the news of Potter’s sacking in a statement, the club wrote: “Chelsea FC has announced that Graham Potter has departed the club. Graham has agreed to collaborate with the Club to facilitate a smooth transition.
“In his time with the club, Graham has taken us to the quarter final of the Champions League, where we will face Real Madrid.”
The statement added: “Chelsea would like to thank Graham for all his efforts and contribution and wish him well for the future.”
Chelsea also confirmed that Bruno Saltor, who joined Graham Potter in moving to Stamford Bridge last year, will take charge of the team as interim head coach.
Co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali have also commented on the dismissal.
“On behalf of everyone at the club, we want to thank Graham sincerely for his contribution to Chelsea,” they said.
“We have the highest degree of respect for Graham as a coach and as a person. He has always conducted himself with professionalism and integrity and we are all disappointed in this outcome.
“Along with our incredible fans, we will all be getting behind Bruno and the team as we focus on the rest of the season.
“We have 10 Premier League games remaining and a Champions League quarter final ahead. We will put every effort and commitment into every one of those games so that we can end the season on a high.”
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