Ruud Gullit has opened up about his controversial Chelsea exit in 1998, claiming his sacking had nothing to do with football but was instead caused by behind-the-scenes power struggles.

Speaking in a recent interview, Gullit reflected on his time at Stamford Bridge and his unexpected dismissal. The Dutchman, who took over as player-manager in July 1996, was Chelsea’s first-ever foreign manager and quickly brought success to the club.

“It was a strange thing and it still is, being sacked when you are successful,” Gullit said.

“Eventually, the truth came out. My sacking had nothing to do with football; it was about people behind the scenes trying to make deals that I didn’t agree with.

“Those individuals were later removed, but by then it was too late. Fortunately, the club changed course under Abramovich.”

Despite delivering Chelsea’s first major trophy in 26 years by winning the FA Cup in 1997, Gullit was dismissed in February 1998. At the time of his sacking, Chelsea were second in the Premier League and had reached the quarter-finals of both the League Cup and Cup Winners’ Cup.

In his 83 games in charge, Gullit maintained an impressive points-per-game record of 1.73, laying the foundation for Chelsea’s rise in English football. His departure remains one of the most debated managerial exits in the club’s history.