Chelsea's board do not want a title-winning manager who is open to replacing Pochettino

The title-winning manager is apparently open to succeeding Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea, with the board's position also emerging.

Chelsea begin the search for a new manager after Pochettino's exit

Co-directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley will begin Chelsea's search for a new manager, with Pochettino officially leaving by mutual consent after months of speculation.

The Argentinian led Chelsea to the European Championship after a successful 2023/2024 campaign, but that was not enough to convince Chelsea's management to stick with him. Before their run of form in the latter stages, Pochettino had been uncertain about his future, and reports at the time suggested that Chelsea had already begun planning a succession.

This was confirmed by journalist Ben Jacobs, who shared detailed information this week on Pochettino's departure and what's next for Chelsea.

“Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley will lead Chelsea's search for a new manager,” wrote Jacobs in X.

“Before the departure of Mauricio Pochettino, succession planning had already begun. Clubs do this even if they do not make a change if there is uncertainty (or it may be necessary in some cases), or the manager is only on a temporary contract. It is expected to be a quick time Kieran McKenna, Michel, Enzo Maresca and Thomas Frank are all discussed.

“Roberto De Zerbi and Ruben Amorim are not seen as likely to appear at this stage. The volume of words shows that #CFC has done due diligence allowing them to leave quickly. Regarding Pochettino, understand that he is happy to return to work. His departure is explained by Chelsea's strong end of the season, and his form since Boxing Day, and the small team he's been working with, means he's walking away with a lot of praise in the industry.”

Many other names have also been linked, such as former manager Thomas Tuchel. Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claimed earlier this week that Chelsea had held informal talks with Tuchel about a return, and talkSPORT have now shared their update on the trophy-winning tactician.

Chelsea board stand by Tuchel open to return

According to the broadcaster, Tuchel is open to joining Chelsea as a manager, but the feeling is not the same on the part of the club.

Indeed, they say officials are reluctant to meet the 50-year-old, which comes after their relationship ended on a sour note last week.

This may disappoint a section of the fans given the situation that his fans love, and the left-back Ben Chilwell may be upset with this news.

“[Tuchel’s continuity] it can only be a good thing,” said Chilwell praising Tuchel during his reign. “As players we have full confidence in the manager – we know we won't find a better manager here. I'm not just saying that. He's an unbelievable manager in every aspect and I think you trust him a lot. And so do we.”