How Pochettino 'bromance' could have significant impact on Chelsea star’s future

Tom Weber

• 9 May 2023 16:14 BST
• 3 min read

The future of Chelsea star N'Golo Kante could hinge on the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino.

The Blues' coaching vacancy is set to end in the near future with the hire of former Spurs and Paris Saint-Germain man Mauricio Pochettino. Frank Lampard has not had the desired impact of lifting the team as interim boss and a permanent solution is desperately needed for next season.

The Argentine will have his work cut out at Stamford Bridge. Though undoubtedly talented, Chelsea's squad is also totally bloated and a summer clearout appears to be on the cards to get rid of some deadwood - and to not overwhelm the club's training facilities anymore.

READ: Chelsea looking to swap FLOPS to seal permanent Felix transfer

While Chelsea's summer business may be a bit more low-key as they are butting up against Financial Fair Play regulations following their €600 million spending spree this term, the club is still working hard behind the scenes on contract renewals for some star players, including midfield linchpin N'Golo Kante - and the imminent appointment of Pochettino could have a big impact on negotiations.

A bromance?

That is because the Frenchman and the 51-year-old have something of a bromance going on between them, according to The Telegraph. The two are quite fond of each other, the report claims, and Pochettino even tried to sign the 32-year-old when he was in charge of PSG.

Consequently, it is expected that Chelsea's appointment of 'Poch' would give their contract negotiations with Kante a boost as the player is understood to be keen on working together with the Argentine.

READ: REVEALED: Pochettino wants three key Chelsea signings

Kante's current contract at Stamford Bridge is set to expire this summer, but Pochettino could help seal the deal on an extension. Despite his age, the veteran midfielder could still have a big role to play in sorting out the Chelsea mess next season if played in his preferred position.