Some Tottenham fans are dismayed as the chance to rehire Mauricio Pochettino starts to slip away.
The Argentine is said to be closing in on a move to Tottenham’s rivals Chelsea, leaving some Spurs supporters who still idolise the South American to be somewhat heartbroken.
That is according to the Guardian.
Now, comments made by Pochettino in 2018 – and also in 2020 – suggest Tottenham have not even attempted to hire him as they look to replace Antonio Conte.
What’s the story?
Well, Pochettino – an Espanyol fan – has previously admitted he could not bring himself to join rivals Barcelona, suggesting that he is a fiercely loyal character.
Sky Sports quote the 51-year-old as saying: “Being an Espanyol fan… it is more than understood (that I will never take over). My path and that of Barcelona are different, opposite directions. Coaching there would be impossible.”
After spending five years at Tottenham, that would suggest he had no prior interest in joining Chelsea unless Daniel Levy gave him no choice but to explore other avenues by not contacting him.
Furthermore, Pochettino told BT Sport in 2020 that he feels he has unfinished business in N17 and would love to make a return to Tottenham one day.
The Argentine said: “Before I die I want to manage Tottenham and try to win one title. It will be an opportunity to pay back the fans for all the love they showed us.”
Therefore, the fact Pochettino is now close to joining Chelsea does feel like a very odd development – one that suggests he is tired of waiting around for Tottenham.
The Murphy-born tactician has been out of work since leaving Paris Saint-Germain in July 2022, so it would make sense for him to have a strong desire to return to management.
Tottenham should have hired Pochettino
Judging by Pochettino’s comments in 2020 about returning to Tottenham, it seemingly would have been quite easy for Levy to rehire him.
Doing so would have been a simple way for the 61-year-old to get Tottenham fans back onside somewhat after the dismal 6-1 defeat to Newcastle and years of bizarre decisions, such as the appointment of Nuno Espirito Santo.
However, Levy appears to be keen on hiring a fresh face, leaving Pochettino free to join rivals Chelsea – if he guides the Blues to silverware after failing to win anything at Spurs, Tottenham fans will probably start to consider following a different sport.
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