"When I started I had to fight a lot with the status of players. They had a pre-set mind they might be untouchable," the Russian tactician told Sky Sports.

"But we touched each other to performances and the players reacted how we wanted from the first day on, so I'm proud of that."

Hiddink was appointed as Chelsea boss in February on a temporary basis following the sacking of Luiz Felipe Scolari.

He made a decent impact at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea moved to within touching distance of second-placed Liverpool in the Premier League.

They were also on the verge of reaching the Champions League final but exited the competition in a cruel manner after a last-gasp defeat to Barcelona.

"Having had the response of everyone, the players, the staff, the public, how they reacted to what we did gives me a lot of satisfaction," Hiddink added.

The 62-year-old, who also manages Russia, is set to leave Chelsea at the end of the season.

"Sadness is not the right word, I'm not going to cry. I don't know my emotions, I haven't, but it's not over yet," Hiddink commented.

"I have enjoyed very much working at this club with these players. I will unofficially keep my connection with the club, by supporting them and every now and then coming to visit."