Revealed: How Ex-Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino could lift trophy at Stamford Bridge in two weeks’ time as he faces awkward return

Mauricio Pochettino is set to honour his commitment to manage in the Soccer Aid charity match, meaning the former head coach of Chelsea faces the unusual prospect of lifting a trophy at Stamford Bridge in two weeks’ time.

Sources say Pochettino has not pulled out of the June 9 fixture after he parted ways with the Premier League club by mutual agreement on Tuesday. Considered one of football’s most thoughtful characters, they add he is not planning on withdrawing.

The 52-year-old Argentine and his assistant Jesus Perez are in line to manage the World XI which will include former Chelsea greats such as Eden Hazard, Petr Cech, John Obi Mikel and Michael Essien, while Frank Lampard is among those overseeing the England team.

Pochettino could yet be forced to withdraw if his schedule suddenly changes, including if he is in talks to take over at another club with Manchester United having been linked this week. But currently, he is planning on taking part in the big night in which money will be raised for UNICEF.

Pochettino and his assistant Jesus Perez are in line to manage the World XI at Stamford Bridge

Former Chelsea star Eden Hazard is amongst the players that Pochettino will manage

Pochettino won the 2023 Soccer Aid match which was held at Old Trafford, with more than £14million raised.

The return to Stamford Bridge will also give Pochettino the chance to say farewell to some Chelsea supporters. He did not get that chance after their final game against Bournemouth – a fifth consecutive victory which secured European qualification – as he was conducting his media duties while the players performed their lap of appreciation.