When Chelsea confirmed the departure of manager Claudio Ranieri on June 1, 2004, it was hardly a shock announcement.
From the moment that Roman Abramovich had taken control of the West London outfit the previous summer, speculation had been rife that the Italian boss was on borrowed time.
Indeed, despite the fact that Ranieri had guided the Blues to a second-place finish during the 2003-04 campaign - their highest position since winning the title back in 1955 - it was not enough to prevent Abramovich wielding the axe.
And, while Ranieri heading for pastures new was no surprise, neither was the identity of his replacement.
It was 11 years ago today that Jose Mourinho waltzed into Stamford Bridge, fresh from having guided an unfancied and unfashionable Porto side to Champions League glory against Monaco the previous month.
The 41-year-old arrived with a reputation as an self-confident manager and he proved as much by declaring himself a "special one", as well as adding: "We have top players and, sorry if I'm arrogant, but we now have a top manager."
As for the task that lie ahead of him, Mourinho added: "The English Premiership is recognised as the best league in the world and I am really excited at the prospect of competing week in, week out at the highest level in England as well as in Europe.
"I have been asked how I will cope with the pressure, how I will cope with these players, how I will cope with the urgent ambition to win titles. You don't have to ask me again because that's what I live for."
Chief executive Peter Kenyon added: "The appointment of Jose Mourinho is all about building on the foundations which we have already established at Chelsea.
"He represents the new generation of football coaches and we are convinced he can take us to the next level, both in England in Europe. His record of sustained success makes him perfect for what we want to achieve at Chelsea."
To Mourinho's credit, not only had he talked the talk, he also walked the walk as he guided Chelsea to two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups prior to his surprise exit in September 2007.
He has since returned to the Bridge following stints in charge of Inter Milan and Real Madrid, winning the Premier League and the League Cup this season.
Liam Apicella
