Leonardo: 'Paris Saint-Germain, Mauricio Pochettino should stick together'

Sporting director Leonardo has insisted that Paris Saint-Germain and manager Mauricio Pochettino should "stick together".

The Argentine is likely to come under fierce scrutiny over the coming days after PSG blew a 2-0 aggregate lead against Real Madrid to bow out of the Champions League at the last 16 stage.

With collecting the Ligue 1 title a near-certainty, it has been perceived that Pochettino's fate would hinge on his team's efforts in Europe.

However, speaking after witnessing Karim Benzema dramatically turn the tie in Real's favour, Leonardo backed Pochettino to remain in the dugout.

Speaking to RMC Sport, the Brazilian said: "We shouldn't throw everything in the bin. We shouldn't start from scratch after every loss. The objective is to win the Champions League, and until half time we were fine.

"We have to look to improve this team and maintain morale to play in Ligue 1 and to finish the season well. We should stay together. Pochettino is still part of the project for this season. It's not the time to think about that."

Pochettino, who has a contract at Parc des Princes until 2023, has claimed that it is "impossible" to discuss his future.