Hiddink is yet to be confirmed as Chelsea‘s interim manager, and coaches Steve Holland and Eddie Newton will take charge on Saturday when Sunderland travel to Stamford Bridge.
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Chelsea now sit just a point above the relegation zone after 16 games of the season, but Meulensteen, who worked with Hiddink at Anzhi Makhachkala, believes that he is the right man to salvage something from their campaign.
Chelsea insisted Mourinho’s Thursday afternoon exit was by “mutual consent”, only for technical director Michael Emenalo to then cite “palpable discord” between the manager and the players for the 52-year-old’s departure.
The Dutchman already had one stint at Chelsea, replacing Luiz Felipe Scolari in 2009, bringing home the FA Cup and only losing one Premier League match.
“I am not surprised with (Chelsea owner) Roman Abramovich’s decision to sack Mourinho”.
Former Sevilla boss Juande Ramos has also been linked as a short-term appointment, while the current incumbent at Nervion, Unai Emery, is an option according to British reports.
Mourinho was also at Cobham, having popped back to collect the last of his things and say a few more goodbyes.
Coming to Chelsea and reviving the club a second time, and possibly winning a trophy or two, would grant him legend status among the supporters, even if he never officially held the title of manager. “Chelsea are in a bad situation and there are reasons for that”, he admitted.
And, especially if Chelsea struggled to break down the Mackems – as they have against many “lesser” Premier League sides this season – the faithful are expected to let their under-achieving stars know exactly what they think of their roles in the Special One’s demise.
“The players have a responsibility to go out and prove everybody wrong and show a commitment to the decision that has been made to try and get the club up the league table”, he said.
“I honestly do believe the players need to take a lot of blame for this as well because they really haven’t performed”. Sad sad day. Gonna miss you Boss.
The midfielder Cesc Fabregas said: “Thank you for all you have done for me”.
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Amid talk of dressing room unrest sealing Mourinho’s fate, club captain John Terry used his Instagram account to pay tribute to the “very best I have ever worked with”.
