Chelsea have confirmed that Jose Mourinho has been appointed as their new coach on a four-year contract, sparking hopes of Michael Essien's long-term future at the Premier League side.
The 50-year-old, who left Real Madrid on Saturday after three years in charge at the La Liga club, led the Blues to six trophies during his first stint at the club between 2004 and 2007.
His return to the Blues means one of his favourite players Essien will return to the club and play a key role after the Ghanaian was ostracized under Roberto Di Matteo.
The midfielder's career was rescued by Mourinho who took him on loan at Real Madrid, helping him to gain some crucial playing time.
Chelsea chief executive Ron Gourlay has confirmed that Mourinho is returning which means he will return to the Ghanaian player.
Gourlay said that Mourinho was always the club’s number one choice to succeed interim boss Rafael BenÃtez.
“I am delighted to welcome José back to Chelsea,†said Gourlay.
“His continued success, drive and ambition made him the outstanding candidate.
“It is our aim to keep the club moving forward to achieve greater success in the future and José is our number one choice as we believe he is the right manager to do just that.
“He was and remains a hugely popular figure at the club and everyone here looks forward to working with him again.â€
Chelsea also confirmed the appointment three assistant coaches – Rui Faria, Silvino Louro and Jose Morais – who will work alongside current first team staff Steve Holland, Christophe Lollichon and Chris Jones.
The Portuguese coach has made no secret of his desire to one day return to coach in the Premier League after leaving the Blues in 2007 and subsequently taking charge of Inter Milan and then Real Madrid.
Mourinho won the Serie A twice in two years and the Champions Leaguewith Inter, before joining Real Madrid in 2010, where he lifted both La Liga and the Copa Del Rey.
The new Chelsea boss will be unveiled to the media at a news conference on Monday 10 June.