Mauricio Pochettino has parted ways with Chelsea by mutual consent. The Premier League club announced the Argentine’s departure on Tuesday, marking the end of his reign after just one season at the helm.
Pochettino took over as Chelsea manager ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, replacing interim manager Frank Lampard. His appointment came as the club’s new owners, Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, sought to revitalize the team following a disappointing 12th-placed finish in the previous season.
Despite signing a two-year contract with an option for an additional year, the 52-year-old manager has now left the west London side. Chelsea’s turbulent campaign saw them rally late to secure a sixth-place finish and European football for the upcoming season.
Sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley expressed their gratitude to Pochettino in a statement: “On behalf of everyone at Chelsea, we would like to express our gratitude to Mauricio for his service this season. He will be welcome back to Stamford Bridge any time, and we wish him all the very best in his future coaching career.”
Pochettino’s tenure was marked by significant investment in the squad. Chelsea spent a staggering £400 million on signings during the close-season transfer window last year. Boehly and Clearlake Capital, who took over the club in 2022, focused on securing young talents on long-term contracts, aiming to build a team for sustained success.
As the search for a new manager begins, Chelsea faces the challenge of finding stability and achieving their ambitions under fresh leadership. Pochettino’s departure leaves a void, but the club remains determined to compete at the highest level in both domestic and European competitions.