Evaluation of Mauricio Pochettino's Role at Chelsea Planned for Summer

Chelsea are bound by a long-standing agreement to evaluate Mauricio Pochettino's role as manager after this season, as understood by 90min. Despite an underwhelming first half of the season, Pochettino's 3-1 FA Cup victory over Aston Villa has demonstrated Chelsea's abilities and come as a boost for him.

However, as Chelsea is trailing into the lower half of the Premier League table, the upcoming month and the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool at the end of February holds much significance.

Prior to the win against Villa, credible sources confirmed to 90min that Pochettino's job is secure for the time being. Stamford Bridge authorities recognize the necessity of patience with their young team. Pochettino has often been unable to field his strongest team due to injuries, and the younger players still need time to acclimatize to the Premier League. Hence, it is agreed that judging Pochettino based on his current performance would be unjust.

Last year, when Pochettino joined Chelsea, a 'two-way appraisal' agreement was made for this summer, providing both Chelsea's owners and Pochettino a chance to discuss the club's future. His contract, lasting three years, guarantees only the first two seasons, with the third year dependent on the club's decision.

Chelsea hopes to complete this season with Pochettino in charge, endeavouring to create a successful long-term relationship. Should the need for change arise, the club is wary of creating additional instability by sourcing an interim, as was the case when Frank Lampard took over from Graham Potter.

Pochettino confirmed receiving encouraging messages from the club's owners following Chelsea's loss to Wolves, thereby debunking rumors of crisis talks or parallel debates over potential successors. The club continues to operate as usual.

Although Chelsea is not presently considering letting Pochettino go, their agreement permits a potential separation after the season. As a result, the club reportedly continues with its standard practice of evaluating potential replacements as part of typical succession planning.

Jose Mourinho, the former manager, has been suggested as a possible replacement following his exit from Roma. However, he is not deemed a suitable choice under the current circumstances.

Like Thomas Tuchel previously, Mourinho does not fit with Chelsea's strategic objectives. Instead, Xabi Alonso of Bayer Leverkusen, Roberto De Zerbi of Brighton, and Ruben Amorim of Sporting are among those admired. However, no formal talks have been held, and no progress will be made as long as Pochettino remains at the helm and as the club wishes to continue with him.

The owners' current plan includes four transfer windows, with the upcoming summer being the last. They aim to secure a high-profile striker, with Napoli's Victor Osimhen seen as a possible candidate. Chelsea does not wish to assess Pochettino's performance before the end of the fourth transfer window.