“I think he will be the best replacement for Pochettino we have seen what he has done for other clubs and still doing now for his current club-Eden Hazard has a bold recommendation for Chelsea’s next manager
Eden Hazard has hinted that his former teammate, Cesc Fabregas, could take over as Chelsea manager, expressing his belief that Mauricio Pochettino should have retained the position after doing a “fantastic job.”
Chelsea announced last week that they had parted ways with Pochettino “by mutual consent” following a turbulent season. The west London club struggled with inconsistent performances and numerous injuries, causing them to spend much of the season in mid-table. However, a late surge of five consecutive victories lifted them to sixth place, securing European competition for the next season.
Despite this upturn, Pochettino and Chelsea’s management disagreed on the team’s future direction, leaving the club in search of a new manager. Early favorite Kieran McKenna from Ipswich Town has since been overshadowed by Thomas Frank of Brentford and Enzo Maresca of Leicester City as the leading candidates, with Roberto De Zerbi also potentially in the mix.
Hazard expressed his disappointment at Pochettino’s departure from Stamford Bridge, particularly after a season marked by transition. He suggested that this could be an opportunity for Fabregas, who briefly managed Como, to take the helm at Chelsea.
Speaking to talkSPORT, Hazard said, “I was, to be frank, a bit upset. I believe he performed admirably. Although it’s only a transitional season, I understand that many want Chelsea to finish in the top four.”
Hazard also praised Pochettino, saying, “He’s a terrific manager, I wish him good success. Let’s see who will come next.” When asked about potential replacements, Hazard mentioned Fabregas, adding with a wink, “My friend can also be the first manager in Como.”
Fabregas, who assisted Osian Roberts in leading Como to promotion to Serie A after serving as interim manager for five games, recently visited Chelsea’s Cobham training facility. Speaking on the BBC Sounds’ Planet Premier League podcast, Fabregas recounted his visit: “I spent the weekend in London. I always thought Mauricio was a really nice guy, a gentleman, when we played against them.”
Reflecting on the visit, Fabregas continued, “Two days before the season ends, on Friday, I thought that they had won four straight games, so everything seemed to be going well. I talked football with him for an hour and a half in his office. I also caught up with former teammates and staff at the club.”
Fabregas concluded, “I quite enjoyed it and didn’t expect this outcome. I was astonished by the decision, as the atmosphere seemed positive and relaxed.”
