Jose Mourinho Accused of Burning out Chelsea Stars by Fabio Capello

Ex-England manager Fabio Capello has insisted Chelsea's struggles this season are thanks to Blues helmsman Jose Mourinho, whom he has accused of "burning out his players."  

Chelsea have won just two of their eight Premier League games this campaign after claiming last season's title, and Capello told Fox Sports the demise is part of a pattern in Mourinho's career (via Sky Sports):

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Mourinho burns out his players after a year and a half, at most two years. I had already heard it when he was in Madrid and now we have confirmation in London.

It is true that Chelsea are paying for some of their absences - like [Thibaut] Courtois - but there have also been tactical errors from the coach, who this year is not preparing for matches very well.

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Saturday's 3-1 defeat to Southampton served as the latest disappointment for the west London giants, now in their third season under Mourinho since he made his return to the club in 2013.

The demands of a professional footballer are considered high regardless of which manager one might play under, but Sport Witness provided further comment from Capello, who highlighted the mental demands of Mourinho:

Irrespective of recent mistakes, The Special One is regarded as one of the shrewdest tactical minds in world football, but it's true that representing a figure with such lofty standards could come to take its toll.

It would take a player of not only world-class talent but also a steely resolve to carry on giving the Portuguese what he demands season after season—a combination difficult to come across, even at the elite level.

Steven Governo/Associated Press

Chelsea have responded to those doubting Mourinho's position at the club by releasing a statement detailing their belief in his ability, evidently of the understanding they will bounce back under his charge.

Early this season, the question was posed as to whether or not Mourinho had a track record of falling standards in his third season at previous clubs, as shown by Sky Sports Football:

Ex-Real Madrid, Juventus and Milan coach Capello agrees with the sentiment Mourinho struggles in prolonging his success, although it's difficult to pinpoint one particular weakness for Chelsea this term.

The defending champions have been poor by their standards, and while Thibaut Courtois' injury is unfortunate, one might agree stars are underperforming in every area, from captain John Terry to Eden Hazard to Diego Costa.

Steven Governo/Associated Press

Capello's critique in regards to mentality may be directed at the Blues boss, but it could perhaps be as easily applied to his players as the topic of complacency and a lack of ambition comes into play.

Copping responsibility for his side's shortcomings is part and parcel of Mourinho's job, and the self-appointed Special One is under an unfamiliar pressure to prove just how talented he really is.