Pochettino in Paris Saint-Germain talks as Tuchel gets the boot

Mauricio Pochettino TEAMtalk

Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly set to become the new Paris Saint-Germain manager after Thomas Tuchel was sacked on Thursday.

Tuchel, 47, has been sent packing despite a successful two-and-a-half-year spell at the Parc des Princes. The German tactician won back-to-back Ligue 1 titles plus both domestic cup competitions in 2019-2020.

European success has evaded the Parisians, however, although they did reach last season’s Champions League final. That ended in defeat to German giants Bayern Munich, causing frustration to the club’s big-spending owners.

PSG are not in their customary spot at the top of the French top-flight standings. But it is far from a disaster, as they sit third and are just one point adrift of table-topping Lyon.

Lille are second in what looks set to be a close title race in 2020-2021. Tuchel will not be at the helm to see it through, however, as the club’s hierarchy have opted for a change.

He guided PSG to victory over Strasbourg on Wednesday but it appears as though the decision had already been made. He leaves the capital with six trophies on his CV and a near 75% win percentage.

Pochettino a perfect fit?

Pochettino has been out of work since being sacked by Tottenham in November 2019. The Argentinian coach failed to win any silverware with the north Londoners.

They became more competitive during his tenure but were still unable to get over the line. The South American’s win percentage of 54.3 was commendable but it is his style of play that endeared him to the fans.

He likes to set up his sides to play attacking football and will have a wealth of talent at his disposal in Paris. Stars such as Neymar and Kylian Mbappe are among the best around and players who might blossom under Pochettino.

RMC are reporting that he is in talks with PSG over the vacancy, with an announcement expected later today.

Thomas Tuchel Paris Saint-Germain

Pochettino has been linked with a number of jobs over the past few months. Manchester United’s name has cropped up on several occasions although Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains in charge.

The Red Devils have improved in recent times and sit third in the top-flight standings at Christmas. It remains to be seen if the Norwegian is still manager in May but, if he does go, Pochettino will not replace him.

PSG are next in action when they face Saint-Etienne in the league on Wednesday, January 6.

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