Mauricio Pochettino has left Chelsea after just one season in charge (Picture: Getty Images)
Manchester United co-owners are believed to be ‘long-term admirers’ of Mauricio Pochettino, with the Argentinian now available after leaving Chelsea.
It was confirmed on Tuesday evening that Pochettino has left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent after crunch talks between the manager and the club’s hierarchy.
Pochettino met with co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart on both Monday and Tuesday, as well as co-controlling owner Behdad Eghbali.
According to The Telegraph, there is no ‘bad blood’ between the former Tottenham boss and Chelsea’s decision-makers, but all parties felt the time was right to go their separate ways.
It had largely been a difficult season for the Blues, but one that finished strongly with five straight victories confirming European football next season.
However, it will be a different manager leading the team in the next campaign and Pochettino could be in charge of a new side as well.
The Standard report that Red Devils co-owners are long-term admirers of Pochettino and now he is a free agent, he is an even more appealing prospect.
Erik ten Hag’s position appears to be under more threat now Pochettino is available (Picture: AP)
Current Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag’s future beyond this season remains in the balance, with the Dutchman still under contract but serious doubts still hanging over him.
An eighth-placed finish represents United’s worst ever Premier League campaign, and although they still have the chance to win the FA Cup when they meet Manchester City in Saturday’s final, Ten Hag may not keep hold of his job.
The likes of Thomas Tuchel and Gareth Southgate have been linked with replacing Ten Hag this summer, but Pochettino has now been installed as the bookmakers’ favourite to be the next Manchester United manager.
Pochettino’s stock has clearly not fallen after a tricky season at Chelsea (Picture: REUTERS)
The Old Trafford giants will have competition, though, as Bayern Munich are still looking to appoint a manager for next season and Pochettino is believed to have quickly become a serious candidate after his Chelsea departure.
The 52-year-old’s short message on leaving the club read: ‘Thank you to the Chelsea ownership group and sporting directors for the opportunity to be part of this football club’s history.
‘The club is now well positioned to keep moving forward in the Premier League and Europe in the years to come.’
MORE : Hansi Flick’s stance on replacing Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea
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