Chelsea FC: Meet The Men Who Have Played For And Managed The Blues
By Lee Fraser
Ruud Gullit – Player Manager
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On 10th May 1996 Ken Bates appointed Ruud Gullit as manager. Ken Bates had originally wanted George Graham as the successor to Glenn Hoddle but the crowds at Stamford Bridge were so vociferous in their support of Ruud that Ken relented! His sexy brand of football ensured that he was the first overseas, and significantly these days, the first black manager to win the FA Cup. His signings included the legendary Gianfranco Zola and 2 future managers, Gianluca Vialli and Roberto Di Matteo.
Despite his popular “Mr. Cool” image Ruud Gullit was a poor man manager and rumours of discontent soon spread. When contract negotiations faltered over his playing contract Chelsea FC took the decision on 12th February 1998 to sack him with immediate effect.
Next: Gianluca Vialli