“Anybody can understand … that this club is in trouble,” was part of Chelsea technical director Michael Emenalo’s explanation for Jose Mourinho’s sacking. On Thursday, the Blues parted ways with the most successful manager in club history, leaving Chelsea without a manager while sitting 16th in the Premier League.

Emenalo’s interview with Chelsea TV, below, is available via the club’s YouTube channel. Perhaps most noteworthy, Emenalo took time to outline the faith the club has in its squad. While Mourinho’s post-match interview after Monday’s 2-1 lost at Leicester City cast doubt on some in the team, Emenalo applauded the effort  players had given during Chelsea’s disappointing campaign, making it clear management still believes in a squad of players that claimed the Premier League seven months ago.