Mauricio Pochettino 'eyeing national team job after Chelsea exit'

By Ben Sully | 22 May 2024

Former Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly showing an interest in becoming England manager if Gareth Southgate leaves his role after Euro 2024.

Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly interested in succeeding England boss Gareth Southgate following his recent departure from Chelsea.

The Argentine's stay at Stamford Bridge lasted just one season after it was confirmed on Tuesday that he had left Chelsea by mutual consent.

Pochettino led Chelsea to the EFL Cup final and FA Cup semi-finals, while he also secured European qualification with a strong finish to the Premier League campaign.

The Blues won their final five Premier League matches to seal sixth spot, representing an improvement from their 12th-placed finish in the 2022-23 campaign.

Although his side struggled for consistency during the campaign, Pochettino appeared to have laid a strong platform to build upon over the summer and next season.

However, the decision was ultimately made for the two parties to go their separate ways following an end-of-season review involving Pochettino and the club's hierarchy.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino on February 12, 2024 © Reuters

Pochettino keen on England job

While Chelsea are searching for a new manager, Pochettino is back on the job market and looking for his next opportunity.

According to The Sun, the 52-year-old is keen to become England manager if Southgate leaves his position after Euro 2024.

Pochettino is seemingly open to trying his hand at international football, having spent time his entire coaching career in club management.

The FA's technical advisor John McDermott will be fully aware of Pochettino's capabilities after the pair previously worked together at Tottenham Hotspur.

As it stands, the FA are keen to extend Southgate's contract, with his current deal set to run until the end of the year.

However, the England boss is reluctant to hold any discussions over his future until England have completed their Euro 2024 campaign.

Chelsea head coach Mauricio Pochettino during EFL Cup final on February 25, 2024. © Reuters

What are Pochettino's alternative options?

While it remains to be seen whether the England job will become available, Pochettino has already been linked with a couple of roles in club football.

Manchester United are believed to view Pochettino as a potential candidate should they decide to change their manager this summer.

The Red Devils are expected to make a final decision on Erik ten Hag's future following Saturday's FA Cup final against Manchester City.

There has also been a suggestion that Bayern Munich could look to reunite Pochettino with Harry Kane and Eric Dier.

However, it appears that the German club are pursuing a deal to appoint Burnley boss Vincent Kompany as Thomas Tuchel's successor.