PSG confirm appointment of former Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino as manager
Pochettino captain the Parisian side during a two-year spell as a player in the early 2000s. Credit: Extratime Team (ETPhotos)
Paris Saint-Germain have confirmed the appointment of former captain Mauricio Pochettino on an 18-month contract following the dismissal of Thomas Tuchel on Christmas Eve.
The former Espanyol and Southampton boss, who has the option of an extra year on his deal, has been out of work since being dismissed by Tottenham Hotspur in November of 2019.
48-year-old Pochettino steered the London club to the Champions League final in 2019, losing 2-0 to Liverpool in Madrid, but was sacked following a poor start to the following campaign.
The experience mirrors that of his predecessor, who guided PSG to last year’s final, losing narrowly to Bayern Munchen, but this season saw the Parisians third in the league at Christmas.
The Argentine spent two years in Paris during his playing career scoring six goals in 95 appearances for the Rouge et Bleu between 2001 and 2003.
He also had spells with Espanyol and Bordeaux after starting his career in his home country with Newell’s Old Boys.
“I am really happy and honored to become the new coach of Paris Saint-Germain," Pochettino told the Parisian club’s official website.
“I would like to thank the club's management for the trust they have placed in me. As you know, this club has always held a special place in my heart.
“I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes. I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world’s most talented players.
“This team has fantastic potential and my staff and I will do everything we can to get the best for Paris Saint-Germain in all competitions.
“We will also do our utmost to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved.”
PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaïfi added: “I am proud to see our former captain returning to Paris Saint-Germain, as the club has always remained his home.
“The return of Mauricio fits perfectly with our ambitions and it will be another exciting chapter for the club and one I am positive the fans will enjoy.
“With the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, Paris Saint-Germain is committed to continue to build and move the club forward over the coming years.”
