Eden Hazard has subtly suggested that a former teammate should take over as Chelsea manager, expressing his belief that Mauricio Pochettino should have remained in the role after doing a “fantastic job.”
After a turbulent season, Chelsea announced early last week that they had parted ways with Pochettino “by mutual consent.” The team spent much of the season struggling with inconsistent performances and numerous injuries, which left them languishing in mid-table. However, a late-season surge of five consecutive victories lifted them to sixth place, securing European competition for the next season.
Despite this turnaround, Pochettino and Chelsea’s management reportedly had differing views on the club’s future direction. As a result, Chelsea is now urgently seeking a new manager. Initially, Kieran McKenna of Ipswich Town was considered a favorite, but the search has narrowed to two primary candidates: Thomas Frank of Brentford and Enzo Maresca of Leicester City, with Roberto De Zerbi also potentially in the mix.
Hazard expressed his regret over Pochettino’s departure from Stamford Bridge, particularly after a season marked by significant changes. He hinted that this situation could provide an opportunity for Cesc Fabregas, a former Chelsea player and ex-caretaker manager of Como, to take the reins.
When asked by talkSPORT about his reaction to Pochettino’s exit, Hazard said, “I was, to be frank, a bit upset.” He praised Pochettino’s performance, acknowledging that although it was a transitional season, many fans still expected Chelsea to secure a top-four finish.
Reflecting on Pochettino’s time at the club, Hazard noted that the Argentine had finally won over Chelsea supporters towards the end of his tenure. “He’s a terrific manager, I wish him good success,” Hazard said. “Observe who will be present in the future.”
When questioned about potential replacements for Pochettino and whether De Zerbi would be a suitable choice, Hazard replied, “Maybe.” He then added with a wink, “My friend can also be the first manager in Como,” suggesting Fabregas as a possible candidate.
Fabregas, who played for Como before briefly serving as interim manager for five games at the end of the previous season, has since helped lead the team to promotion to Serie A alongside Osian Roberts. Just days before Pochettino’s departure, Fabregas visited Chelsea’s Cobham training facility. He shared this experience on the BBC Sounds’ Planet Premier League podcast, saying, “Ironically, I spent the weekend in London.”
Fabregas recounted his interactions with Pochettino, stating, “To begin with, I got along well with Mauricio. I always thought that he was a really lovely guy, a gentleman, when we played against them.” He described visiting Chelsea’s training ground two days before the season ended, noting the positive atmosphere following a streak of four wins.
“I stopped by and he gave me a warm welcome,” Fabregas said. He detailed a lengthy conversation with Pochettino about football, lasting an hour and a half in the manager’s office. Fabregas also reconnected with former teammates and other club staff.
Reflecting on the visit, Fabregas expressed his surprise at Pochettino’s dismissal, saying, “I didn’t have the impression that this would occur. I was astonished by the choice since, just by glancing around and observing the atmosphere, I thought it was pleasant and simple.”
