Chelsea appoint Pochettino as new manager

Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as the English Premier League (EPL) club’s new manager.

The club announced Pochettino’s appointment via a statement on Monday.

The former Tottenham coach signed a two-year contract, with the option of a further year.

He takes over from July 1, replacing Frank Lampard, the club’s departing interim manager.

“Chelsea Football Club is pleased to confirm Mauricio Pochettino will become head coach of the men’s team from the beginning of the 2023/24 season,” the statement reads.

“The Argentine will begin his new role on 1 July 2023 on a two-year contract, with a club option of a further year.”

Speaking on the appointment of the former PSG coach, Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, said Pochettino’s experience, commitment to development and winning were key in his selection to replace Thomas Tuchel who was sacked earlier in the just-concluded season.

“Mauricio’s experience, standards of excellence, leadership qualities and character will serve Chelsea Football Club well as we move forward,” they added.

“He is a winning coach, who has worked at the highest levels, in multiple leagues and languages. His ethos, tactical approach and commitment to development all made him the exceptional candidate.”

Chelsea finished a disappointing 11th in the 2022/23 EPL season despite the new owners spending over £500 million in the season’s transfer market.