Official: Pochettino’s next job will NOT be Chelsea

Robin Bairner

• 19 May 2023 11:46 BST
• 3 min read

Mauricio Pochettino’s next trip to the dugout will not be under the guise of Chelsea manager, it has been confirmed.

The former Tottenham and PSG boss remains in pole position to take the reins at Stamford Bridge but before then, he has another task to undertake.

Pochettino has been confirmed as the manager of the World XI FC with Soccer Aid, which will take place at Manchester United’s Old Trafford ground on 11 June.

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He will lead a team of celebrities and football legends against an England side made up of similar players.

Among the ex-stars under Pochettino’s control for the game are former Man Utd winger Nani, legendary left-back Roberto Carlos, Roma icon Francesco Totti and Gabriel Batistuta, one of the deadliest strikers of his generation.

Captaining Pochettino’s side will be the legendary sprinter Usain Bolt.

Among those legends in the England team are Gary Neville, Paul Scholes and Jack Wilshere.

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What is Soccer Aid?

According to Soccer Aid’s official website: “Soccer Aid for UNICEF is the world’s biggest celebrity football match, raising money to give kids the best start in life.

“Once a year, England take on their opponents, the Soccer Aid World XI FC. Supported by passionate fans in an iconic stadium and broadcast live on ITV and STV, the event harnesses the power of football to help make sure that children can grow up happy, healthy and able to play.”

Initially, it was played once every two years, but since 2018 it has become an annual event.

UNICEF, meanwhile, raises funds for emergency and development work for children around the world and seeks to promote children’s rights in the UK and internationally.

Pochettino will protect a four-match winning streak for the Rest of the World team in this encounter. Last season, the World XI FC overcame England 4-1 after a penalty shootout and the London Stadium. Indeed, four of the last five matches have gone to penalties.