Chelsea’s Managerial Hunt: Top 10 contenders to replace Pochettino

Chelsea are once again on the lookout for a new manager following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino by mutual consent after just one season at Stamford Bridge.

The Argentine manager faced criticism for a lackluster first half of the season but ultimately led Chelsea to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League. Additionally, the Blues were runners-up in the Carabao Cup and reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup.

Chelsea could qualify for the Europa League next season if Manchester City defeats Manchester United in the FA Cup final. This would be a significant achievement for the club, but the manager credited with turning their fortunes around will not be on the sidelines next season.

Reports indicate that the board is considering younger coaches who are aligned with their long-term vision for the club.

Here are some notable names in pole position to land the job:

Kieran McKenna

Kieran McKenna, 38, guided Ipswich to Premier League promotion this season and is on Chelsea’s radar. The former Manchester United coach is known for his impressive, free-flowing football with Ipswich and was considered even before Pochettino’s departure.

Roberto De Zerbi

Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi, 44, resigned shockingly at the end of this season. He guided Brighton to sixth place the season before last, qualifying for European competition for the first time. De Zerbi is known for developing talents, a vision Chelsea shares.

Michel Sanchez

Girona boss Michel Sanchez, 48, is a surprising but potential candidate. He impressed this season by guiding Girona to Champions League qualification and has been mentioned as a possible replacement for Xavi at Barcelona.

Ruben Amorim

Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim was rumored to be heading to Liverpool this summer. His reputation soared after guiding Sporting CP to their first top-flight title in 19 years in 2021. Chelsea have long been interested in Amorim, with recent reports suggesting initial talks were held in London for the 39-year-old to replace Pochettino.

Julian Nagelsmann

Julian Nagelsmann, 36, currently managing Germany, has a contract until July 2024 but would be available after this summer’s European Championships. He won the Bundesliga in his first season at Bayern Munich before being dismissed. Nagelsmann was a favourite for the Chelsea job last summer.

Sebastian Hoeneß

Sebastian Hoeneß, 42, is highly rated for his exploits with VFB Stuttgart, finishing second in the Bundesliga. Despite his commitment to Stuttgart, Hoeneß is reported as a potential replacement for Pochettino.

Thomas Frank

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has been linked with Chelsea since Graham Potter’s departure. The 50-year-old Danish tactician is praised for his achievements with the Bees and has a track record of developing talents.

Hansi Flick

Hansi Flick, available since being sacked by Germany in September 2023, won 70 of his 86 games in charge of Bayern Munich from November 2019 to June 2021. Under Flick, Bayern achieved a treble of the domestic league, cup, and Champions League in the 2019-20 season. However, his age (59) might not align with Chelsea’s preference for younger coaches.

Enzo Maresca

After coaching the U23 of Manchester United a few years ago, the Italian manager has upgraded himself with the incredible achievement of leafing Leicester City back to the Premier League by winning the Championship.

Chelsea are believed to admire his tactical acumen and the 44-year-old has emerged a strong contender.

Vincent Kompany

Chelsea have shown interest in Burnley boss Vincent Kompany. The Belgian impressed by guiding the Clarets to promotion the season before last, and their recent relegation hasn’t significantly tarnished his reputation. Kompany’s attacking football style and success with Anderlecht before Burnley make him a strong candidate. However, Chelsea may face competition from Bayern Munich.

Chelsea’s search for a new manager focuses on finding a candidate who aligns with their long-term vision, emphasising youth development and a modern tactical approach.