Carlo Ancelotti is no longer Chelsea manager, the club have
announced, after the final day of the Premier League saw them lose
1-0 to Everton.
A statement on the club's website revealed they had parted
company with the Italian, who led Chelsea to a Premier League and
FA Cup double last season.
His position had been the subject of much speculation after
Chelsea's poor form at the turn of the year, which culminated in
their exit from the FA Cup and Champions League. Despite getting
back into title contention in the league, and the January signings
of Fernando Torres and David Luiz, a 2-0 defeat at Manchester
United condemned them to second place.
The statement read: "Chelsea Football Club can confirm that
Carlo Ancelotti parted company with the club today (Sunday, 22
May).
"The owner and board would like to thank Carlo for his
contribution and achievements since taking over as manager in July
2009, which included winning the Double for the first time in the
club's history.
"However, this season's performances have fallen short of
expectations and the club feels the time is right to make this
change ahead of next season's preparations. Carlo will always be
welcome at Stamford Bridge, where he will be given the reception
and respect his position in our history deserves.
"Chelsea's long-term football objectives and ambitions remain
unchanged and we will now be concentrating all our efforts on
identifying a new manager. There will be no further comment until
that appointment is made."