Chelsea eye Amorim to replace Pochettino this summer
Chelsea are reportedly drawing up a shortlist to replace manager Mauricio Pochettino if they decide to part ways with him this summer, according to the Daily Mail.
Pochettino is under fire at Chelsea after losing the League Cup final against Liverpool to continue his trophy drought in England.
The 51-year-old, who signed a two-year deal last summer, could leave the London club if results do not improve anytime soon.
Pochettino faces a crucial run of games, including Wednesday’s FA Cup clash with Leeds United and Premier League matches against Brentford, Newcastle United and Arsenal.
Failure to turn things around could lead to his departure, prompting Chelsea to explore alternatives.
Chelsea reportedly have a long-standing interest in Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim. They had an eye on him before they hired Pochettino last summer.
The 39-year-old rose to prominence following a two-month stint in Braga. He led the club to the Taca da Portugal title, defeating FC Porto, before Sporting paid €10 million to lure him away in March 2020.
Despite playing for Sporting’s rivals Benfica, he immediately won the admiration of his new fans with his structured style of play.
He led Sporting to the Taca da Liga and Primeira Liga title in his first full season. The league title was their first in almost 20 years.
Amorim won the Taca da Liga again in the 2021/22 season and the Portuguese Super Cup. Sporting struggled last season but have bounced back this term.
Sporting are second in the Primeira Liga, two points off Benfica with a game in hand. It is a two-horse race for the title between the two giants.
Amorim’s side are also in the round of 16 of the Europa League, where they will face Atalanta. Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation will undoubtedly suit Chelsea’s squad.
However, his potential appointment isn’t guaranteed. Pochettino is still in the role, and Chelsea are likely considering their options.
Amorim could attract interest from other European clubs offering Champions League football.