Mauricio Pochettino and Chelsea Part Ways: Who's Next?

Mauricio Pochettino and Chelsea have mutually agreed to part ways after just one season at the club. Despite facing criticism initially, Mauricio Pochettino led Chelsea to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League, along with reaching the runners-up position in the Carabao Cup and the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

As Chelsea begins the search for a new manager, several names have emerged as potential candidates. Here are some of the early contenders:

1. Ruben Amorim, a 39-year-old Portuguese manager, gained recognition for guiding Sporting to their first top-flight title in 19 years in 2021. Additionally, Chelsea has shown long-term interest in Amorim.

2. Hansi Flick, a 59-year-old German manager, is available and ready to return to management after Germany sacked him in September 2023. Furthermore, Flick had a successful tenure at Bayern Munich, winning multiple domestic titles and the Champions League.

3. Vincent Kompany, the Burnley boss, has already attracted interest from Chelsea. Moreover, Kompany impressed by guiding Burnley to promotion and has maintained a good reputation despite their recent relegation. Bayern Munich has also expressed interest in him.

4. Kieran McKenna, a 38-year-old former Manchester United coach has gained attention after guiding Ipswich to Premier League promotion. Reportedly, Chelsea is interested in McKenna due to his ability to produce impressive, free-flowing football.

5. Jose Mourinho, a 61-year-old Portuguese manager has been linked with a third spell as Chelsea manager. Despite his successful history with the club, winning three Premier League titles and an FA Cup, it appears unlikely that he will return.

6. Julian Nagelsmann, a 36-year-old former Bayern Munich boss, took over as Germany manager in September 2023. His contract runs until July 2024, making him available after this summer’s European Championships. Notably, Nagelsmann was a favorite to take over Chelsea last summer before the club went in a different direction.

7. Michel Sanchez, a 48-year-old Girona boss has impressed by guiding his side to Champions League qualification. Interestingly, he has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Xavi at Barcelona.

8. Thomas Tuchel, the highly-rated manager who led Chelsea to a Champions League victory in 2021 left his job at Bayern Munich and is looking for a new challenge. Although it is unlikely that he will return to Chelsea, nothing can be ruled out.

9. Roberto de Zerbi, a 44-year-old Italian manager, recently resigned as Seagulls boss. Despite guiding Brighton to sixth place and European qualification in the past, he has stated that he currently has no role lined up.