Chelsea Football Club has announced the departure of Mauricio Pochettino by mutual consent following the conclusion of his first season at the helm, as reported on Tuesday.
In a statement, Pochettino expressed his appreciation to the Chelsea ownership group and sporting directors, acknowledging the club’s trajectory for continued success in both domestic and European competitions.
The decision was reached subsequent to discussions between Pochettino and Chelsea officials, prompted by the team’s sixth-place finish in the Premier League under the Argentine coach’s leadership, according to sources close to the matter.
Pochettino’s departure was confirmed after a comprehensive end-of-season review involving Chelsea’s sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, alongside co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali.
Acknowledging Pochettino’s contributions, Winstanley and Stewart conveyed Chelsea’s gratitude for his service, extending an open invitation for his return to Stamford Bridge while wishing him well in his future endeavors.
Having originally signed a two-year contract in May 2023, Pochettino exits prematurely from his tenure at Chelsea.
Despite a challenging start to the 2023-24 campaign, Chelsea rallied in the latter half, securing qualification for the Europa Conference League in the upcoming season by virtue of a five-game winning streak to close out the season.
With Pochettino’s departure, Chelsea now aims to appoint a successor characterized by youth and progressive coaching methods, as outlined by sources familiar with the club’s intentions.
Potential candidates for the managerial position include Sebastian Hoeness of VfB Stuttgart, Michel of Girona, Kieran McKenna of Ipswich Town, and Enzo Maresca of Leicester City, as reported by credible sources.
Pochettino’s exit marks the third managerial change at Chelsea since the club’s acquisition by Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly in May 2022, following the dismissals of Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.
