Cole Palmer, etc. Chelsea players compliment fired manager Mauricio Pochettino

Chelsea’s players expressed their appreciation for Mauricio Pochettino on Wednesday following his abrupt sacking after just one season in charge. Despite having a year left on his contract, Pochettino was dismissed on Tuesday after Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League.

Although Pochettino guided the Blues to European qualification with a strong end to the campaign, it was a challenging year for the former Tottenham and Paris Saint-Germain manager. His team faced boos from fans after several poor performances, lost the League Cup final to a young Liverpool side, and were defeated in the FA Cup semi-final by Manchester City.

Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly, who has spent over £1 billion on new signings during his two-year tenure, expected better results. Pochettino is the third manager to be sacked by Boehly’s consortium, following Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter.

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However, Pochettino was well-liked by Chelsea’s players, who valued his public support during tough times. Many took to social media to praise him after his dismissal.

Chelsea captain Reece James, who had an injury-riddled season, posted on Instagram: “Thank you for everything boss. We had an amazing relationship from the moment we met. I never played as much as I would have hoped under you, which I am sorry for but also something I couldn’t control. You believed in me and gave me a huge responsibility when many others doubted me.”

Chelsea’s top scorer Cole Palmer, who scored 22 league goals and provided 11 assists after joining from Manchester City in September, wrote on Instagram: “Gaffer, thank you for everything you have done for me & making my dreams come true. All the best.”

Senegal striker Nicolas Jackson, who struggled through a disappointing first season, posted: “Good luck coach, wish we could stay more together but may God continue to bless you and your family. Thanks for your support and advice and making me a better player and person. Wish you all the best.”

Midfielder Moises Caicedo, who faced challenges living up to his £115 million price tag, posted: “Mister! It was a pleasure. I wish you all the best for the future! What a person and what a coach.”

Young winger Noni Madueke, who emerged towards the end of the season, wrote: “You taught me invaluable lessons both on and off the pitch. I will always be grateful. I wish you the best in the next chapter of your life.”

Pochettino recently remarked that it wouldn’t be the end of the world if he were sacked. His departure now leaves Chelsea in search of yet another manager in the turbulent Boehly era.

Chelsea, who haven’t won a domestic trophy since the 2018 FA Cup, have been linked with several potential candidates, including Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, Stuttgart manager Sebastian Hoeness, Girona chief Michel, Burnley’s Vincent Kompany, and former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.