Spanish attacker Juan Mata has described departing Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo as a club "legend".
The Italian, who also spent six years at Stamford Bridge as a player, guided the Blues to the Champions League and FA Cup last season.
However, a handful of negative results this season saw the 42-year-old lose his job earlier today.
Having learned the news of Di Matteo's dismissal, Mata admitted that it had been a "difficult day".
"It's been a difficult day. Roberto Di Matteo is no longer our manager," Mata wrote on Facebook. "I would like to thank him for all this time with us and wish him the best of luck for the future.
"As a player he has been a legend for the 'Blues'. With him as a manager we won our first Champions League. He will always be remembered. Good luck Robbie!"
Mata's compatriot Rafael Benitez is the favourite to take over from Di Matteo.
Liam Apicella
