Official: Guus Hiddink takes over as Chelsea manager

I don't think many Chelsea fans thought that we'd be seeing an interim manager this season, but following Thursday's announcement that the club had parted ways with Jose Mourinho for a second time, the Blues were left needing a new man in charge. Reports emerged shortly after the sacking that they'd be turning to a familiar face, and sure enough, Guus Hiddink will take charge at Stamford Bridge for the second time.

.@ChelseaFC can confirm Guus Hiddink has been appointed first-team manager until the end of the season. https://t.co/ysm9lCR0jF

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) 19. Dezember 2015

Compared with our last interim manager, Hiddink should be a much more popular hire, even if Mourinho's sacking hasn't gone over well. The Dutchman led the Blues to an FA Cup and nearly our first Champions League title as well in his first spell at the Bridge, and with any luck, will re-energize the squad to make a push towards their second this time.

Hopefully, Hiddink manages to start getting better performances and results in very short order, as the holiday period should provide the Blues a chance to move safely out of the relegation battle, and back towards the fight for the last few Europa League places. It's sad that this is now the goal.

Welcome back, Guus.