Paris Saint Germain announced the appointment of new head coach Mauricio Pochettino on Saturday, who joins on a two year contract with an option to extend one year further.
This follows the departure of Thomas Tuchel on Christmas Eve, a sacking that once again displays the harsh realities of the footballing world.
Tuchel, who took his side to the Champions League quarter final just four months ago, somewhat surprisingly departed the club after an emphatic 4-0 victory over Strasbourg.
It’s hardly been a disastrous time for the Parisians who currently sit just one point off the top of Ligue 1 and have qualified to the Champions League knockout stages as group winners.
The incoming Pochettino will be well aware of his expectations as he begins a new chapter of his career at a club determined to be the very best in Europe.
The Argentinian manager has been unemployed since his departure at Tottenham where he was in charge for five years, and led Spurs to a memorable Champions League final.
Prior to that was a very successful spell at Southampton where he helped the Saints achieve their joint highest league finish in their history.
Now, Pochettino returns to the club he once captained and will take charge of some of the best footballers on the planet, with the hope of leading them to their first ever Champions League title.
Questions will be asked of his ability to win silverware as his managerial career is still void of any major honours, although his new role will surely provide his best opportunity to date.
Reaction
Speaking to the official PSG website, Pochettino said “I am really happy and honored to become the new coach of Paris Saint-Germain”
“As you know, this club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes… This team has fantastic potential and my staff and I will do everything we can to get the best for Paris Saint-Germain in all competitions.”
Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, PSG Chairman and CEO added “The return of Mauricio fits perfectly with our ambitions and it will be another exciting chapter for the club and one I am positive the fans will enjoy.”
Pochettino, former player of PSG will take charge of the Parisian side for the first time on Wednesday when they visit the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard to face 14th place St-Etienne.
