5) Frank Lampard (£4 million, 2019)
Club legend Frank Lampard was appointed as Chelsea’s manager in 2019 for £4 million. Lampard’s return to Stamford Bridge as a manager was met with great enthusiasm from the fans. Under his management, Chelsea navigated through a transfer ban and integrated several academy players into the first team.
Despite a promising start, inconsistent results led to his dismissal in January 2021. Lampard’s tenure is remembered for his focus on youth development and navigating challenging circumstances.
6) Jose Mourinho (£1.7 million, 2004)
Jose Mourinho’s first appointment in 2004 for £1.7 million is iconic in Chelsea’s history. Arriving from Porto after winning the UEFA Champions League, Mourinho quickly transformed Chelsea into a dominant force in English football. His first tenure saw Chelsea win two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and two League Cups.
Mourinho’s charismatic personality and tactical acumen left an indelible mark on the club. His relatively modest acquisition cost compared to his impact makes his appointment one of the best-value investments Chelsea have ever made.
Chelsea’s willingness to invest heavily in managerial talent highlights the club’s relentless pursuit of success. While some appointments have yielded significant returns, others have been costly experiments. As Chelsea continue to strive for excellence, these managerial investments will remain a critical part of the club’s strategy to achieve sustained success at the highest levels of football.