Chelsea players had varied and contrasting emotions as the club announced manager Mauricio Pochettino had decided to depart Stamford Bridge by mutual consent on Tuesday (May 21). While forward Nicholas Jackson believed it was a ‘facepalm’ moment for the club, left-back Marc Cucrella was shell-shocked by the development. 

After the announcement, Jackson took to his Instagram handle and posted a story containing a picture of him and Pochettino with only the ‘facepalm’ emojis – suggesting he was not happy with the decision taken by the Chelsea board to replace yet another manager. 

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In another story, Jackson added more emojis to convey his real feelings: “Love you coach. Wish we could stay together more [another facepalm]. But may God continue to bless you and your family. Thanks for the advices and support; you’re a true lion and fighter; wish you all the best [heart].”

Marc Cucurella, who invited a lot of criticism for his gameplay but managed to turn it around late in the season due to Pochettino’s tactical tweak of inverting him in the midfield, could be seen surprised by the development. 

“Thanks for everything Mister. Good luck in the future,” he wrote with three shocked emoji faces. 

Young Player of the Season, Cole Palmer, posted a heartfelt message, thanking the Argentine gaffer for giving him the opportunity to showcase his talent on the big stage after his high-profile move from Manchester City. 

Similarly, former Brighton player Moises Caicedo who turned into a well-rounded no. 6 under Pochettino added: “Mister! It was a pleasure (crying face emoji). I wish you all the best for the future! What a person and what a coach.”

Chelsea announce separation 

Despite having a super end to the decision where Chelsea won five on the bounce and qualified for Europe, Pochettino was not given the long rope and decided to depart on his own terms. 

“Chelsea FC can confirm that the club and Mauricio Pochettino have mutually agreed to part ways,” Chelsea said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Pochettino said the club was in a better place than he had found and that it would keep moving forward. 

“Thank you to the Chelsea ownership group and sporting directors for the opportunity to be part of this football club’s history,” said Pochettino. 

“The club is now well positioned to keep moving forward in the Premier League and Europe in the years to come.”

In just two years under the ownership of an American consortium fronted by LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly and private equity group Clearlake Capital, Chelsea have spent over £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on new players.

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