Chelsea squad 'surprised' by Pochettino's exit - Romano

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 21 May 2024 22:27 BST
• 5 min read

Several Chelsea players were reportedly “surprised” by Mauricio Pochettino’s exit, with many saddened by news of his departure.

Pochettino’s 11-month stint at Stamford Bridge came to an end on Tuesday, 21 May after the Blues mutually agreed to end his time in charge of the club.

Chelsea won their final five matches of the 2023-24 Premier League season, but it was not enough to save Pochettino’s job, with the Argentine reportedly wanting a more prominent role in deciding transfer business.

READ MORE: Winners and losers of Pochettino's Chelsea departure

Pochettino’s exit came as a shock to many Chelsea players, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, while the squad were saddened by his departure, as per BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella.

Despite the Blues’ impressive end to the campaign, not everyone at the club was on the same page regarding Pochettino’s future, Romano told his YouTube channel. This is reportedly why the club decided to mutually end his contract at Stamford Bridge.

The west London club have now begun searching for Pochettino’s replacement, with as many as 10 names linked with the vacant job. Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna has emerged as a leading candidate, according to reports.

READ MORE: The 10 managers linked with replacing Pochettino at Chelsea

Chelsea players react to Mauricio Pochettino’s departure

Several Chelsea players have taken to social media to express their gratitude to Pochettino.

For example, Marc Cucurella posted three shocked face emojis on his Instagram Story, accompanied by the message: “Thanks for everything Mister. Good luck in the future.”

Cole Palmer also posted on Instagram, with the ex-Manchester City winger writing: “Gaffer, thank you for everything you have done for me & making my dreams come true. All the best.”

Josh Kofi Acheampong echoed this sentiment, posting: ““Thank you for everything gaffer you have made my dreams come true.”

Mykhailo Mudryk also released an Instagram Story with the caption: “Thank you for everything,” while Noni Madueke’s post read: “Thank you.”